Cheese and herb pastries

Cheese and herb pastries are a delicacy that combines tradition with flavor, offering an explosion of aromas in a crispy package. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you're serving appetizers at a party or want to indulge in a delicious snack. Let's embark on the preparation process of these pastries together, step by step.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12 pastries

Necessary ingredients

For the dough:
- 350 g flour
- 100 g sour cream
- 100 ml water
- 1 egg
- 1 pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 300 g cottage cheese (or homemade cheese)
- 1 egg
- 1 pack of cream cheese with sour cream (approximately 150 g)
- Dried parsley (or dill, to taste)
- Salt, to taste

For brushing:
- 70-80 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 yolk + 1 teaspoon of milk (for brushing the pastries)

A brief history

Cheese pastries have a long-standing tradition in kitchens around the world, ranging from sweet to savory pastries. They have often been prepared in households using available ingredients, and each family has developed its own recipe, giving them a unique charm.

Step by step: Preparing the pastries

1. Preparing the dough

Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour with the pinch of salt. Add the egg, sour cream, and water. Use a spatula or your hands to mix the ingredients until you obtain a homogeneous, slightly sticky dough. It is normal for the dough to be softer, so do not add too much flour.

Practical tips:
- If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but don’t overdo it, as we want a soft and elastic dough.
- Choose a quality sour cream that will provide a rich taste to your pastries.

2. Resting the dough

After obtaining the dough, let it rest on the work surface, covered with a clean towel, for 10-15 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

3. Dividing and rolling out the dough

Divide the dough into three equal parts. Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll each piece into a thin sheet, about 2-3 mm thick. Make sure the sheets do not stick to the surface; if necessary, add a little extra flour.

Helpful tricks:
- Use a well-floured rolling pin to make rolling out the dough easier.
- If you prefer crisper pastries, roll the dough as thin as possible.

4. Preparing the filling

In a separate bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the egg, cream cheese, and dried parsley. Add salt to taste, being careful not to overdo it, as the cheese may already be salty. Mix well until all the ingredients are integrated.

5. Forming the pastries

Take the rolls out of the fridge and cut them into pieces about 2-3 fingers wide. Roll each piece with a rolling pin to obtain a thin disc. Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each disc and gather the edges to form a "pouch".

Personal suggestion:
For an even more intense flavor, you can add a few fresh basil or dill leaves to the filling.

6. Baking the pastries

Place the pastries seam side down in a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium to high heat). Before putting them in the oven, brush them with the yolk and milk mixture to achieve a golden and shiny crust.

Bake the pastries for about 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 160°C (low heat) and leave them in the oven for another 10-15 minutes until they become golden and crispy.

7. Serving

Once the pastries are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on a rack. These pastries are delicious both warm and cold and pair perfectly with fresh yogurt or a green salad.

Combinations and variations

Cheese pastries pair excellently with a glass of white wine or a flavored green tea. You can try changing the filling with spinach and feta cheese or even mushrooms for interesting variations. Each modification will add a new dimension to these traditional pastries.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of pastries contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portion size. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, while sour cream adds flavor and creaminess. These pastries are ideal for inclusion in a balanced diet, in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with various types of cheese, such as feta, telemea, or even mozzarella for a different taste.

How can I store the pastries?
The pastries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.

Can I freeze these pastries?
Yes, you can freeze the raw pastries. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer. Once they are firm, you can transfer them to an airtight container. When you want to prepare them, you can bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Cheese and herb pastries are an excellent choice for any time of the day, whether it's a quick snack or an elegant appetizer. With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you'll be able to prepare a delicious dish that will impress everyone. So put on your apron and let's enjoy cooking!

 Ingredients: Dough: 350 g flour, 100 g sour cream, 100 ml water, 1 egg, 1 pinch of salt. Filling: 300 g cheese (cottage cheese), 1 egg, 1 small box of cream cheese with sour cream, dried parsley (or dill), salt. Additionally: 70-80 g butter, 1 yolk + 1 teaspoon of milk.

 Tags:  cheese pies