Delve into the world of savory pastries with this delectable Sausage & Pepper Kolaches recipe from Food52! Originating from Czech traditions, kolaches have taken various forms in different parts of the United States. Today, we bring you a Texan-inspired twist, featuring succulent Italian sausages nestled in a bed of pickled peppers and onions, all wrapped in a soft, slightly sweet yeast-raised dough. If you’re feeling adventurous, we’ve even included a Texan klobásník variation and a sweet kolache option to cater to every palate.

Dough Ingredients for the Kolaches Recipe:

• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 1 tablespoon instant dry yeast
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons dry milk powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt

Ingredients for filling & finishing for the Kolaches Recipe:

• 10 Italian sausages, fully cooked
• 1 medium sweet onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Egg wash:

• 1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water + pinch of kosher salt
• 1 1/4 cups (125 grams), packed, sharp cheddar cheese

Directions for the Kolaches Recipe:

1. Begin by creating the base of our kolaches—a soft, sweet yeast-raised dough that perfectly complements the savory filling. In a bowl, whisk together two room temperature eggs, melted butter, instant dry yeast, and whole milk. In a separate large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, dry milk powder, and fine sea salt. Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry, kneading until a smooth dough forms. Let it rise until doubled in size.
2. While the dough rises, prepare the flavorful filling. In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter, sautéing diced sweet onion and minced garlic until aromatic. Add a dash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick, followed by diced green and red bell peppers. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, creating a zesty medley. Once cooked, set aside to cool.
3. Divide the risen dough into portions and roll each piece into a circle. Spoon the vibrant pepper and sausage mixture onto the center, leaving space around the edges. Top with a fully cooked Italian sausage, wrap the dough around, and pinch to seal. Brush with an egg wash for a golden finish and sprinkle with sharp cheddar cheese. Bake until beautifully golden, approximately 20 to 24 minutes.
4. For a traditional Texan sausage klobásník, shape the dough into rectangles, fill with peppers and sausage, and wrap tightly. Alternatively, indulge your sweet tooth by skipping the savory filling, spooning lemon curd onto the dough circles, and adding a streusel topping before baking.

Side Dish Suggestions:

Enhance your Sausage & Pepper Kolaches experience with delightful side dishes. A refreshing side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast. Roasted sweet potato wedges or a serving of creamy coleslaw can also elevate your meal.

As you embark on your kolache-making adventure, don’t forget to let your creativity shine. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its delicious end result but in the endless possibilities it offers. Take pride in crafting a dish that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, adding a unique touch to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these kolaches promise a rewarding experience that goes beyond a mere meal—they become a celebration of flavors, cultures, and the joy of sharing good food with those you hold dear. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and immerse yourself in the delightful world of Sausage & Pepper Kolaches.

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