Cheese-filled pastry
Cheese-filled pastry - A crunchy and tasty delicacy
Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings
The cheese-filled pastry is a traditional recipe that brings to the table a delight full of flavor and varied textures. This thin-layered pie with cheese filling is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even as a quick meal. The history of this recipe is lost in the mists of time, but it is clear that it has been loved by many generations due to its simplicity and versatility.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 1kg of flour (choose a quality flour with a medium protein content for an elastic dough)
- ½ cup of oil (about 125 ml, sunflower oil is ideal)
- 2 eggs (at room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 450-500 ml of lukewarm water (not hot, to avoid cooking the eggs)
For the filling:
- 300g of sheep cheese (or a combination with slightly salted cow cheese)
- 2-3 tablespoons of dill and chopped green onion (optional, for added flavor)
For brushing:
- Oil for rolling out the dough
- 1 egg yolk mixed with a tablespoon of lukewarm water (for a shiny finish)
Step-by-step instructions
1. Preparing the dough:
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. Add the oil and mix it with the flour between your palms, ensuring it is well incorporated. In another container, mix the eggs with the salt and lukewarm water. It is important that the eggs are not beaten, just lightly mixed.
2. Forming the dough:
Make a well in the center of the flour and gradually pour in the egg mixture. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and no longer sticks to your hands, about 15 minutes. Cover the dough with a linen towel and let it rest for at least 1 hour, but ideally longer. If you are not using it immediately, wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator.
3. Rolling out the dough:
On a clean surface, grease the table with oil. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out each piece with a rolling pin, then let it rest for a few minutes. It is essential that the dough is at room temperature for easy rolling.
4. Stretching technique:
Grease your hands with oil and take a piece of dough. Using your fists, stretch the dough from the center to the edges, creating a thin circle. Gradually increase the size of the sheet, being careful not to tear the edges. Ideally, the sheet should be about 60/80 cm in size, but if you can stretch it more, that’s even better.
5. Filling and rolling:
Grease the entire surface of the dough with melted butter or oil, then evenly sprinkle the grated cheese. Leave a 15-20 cm unfilled edge. Carefully lift the tablecloth from one end and roll the dough into a spiral shape. Make sure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking.
6. Baking:
Place the pastry in a greased baking tray. Brush with the egg yolk and water mixture for a glossy finish. Preheat the oven to 220°C and bake for 20 minutes. After this period, lower the temperature to 200°C and continue baking for another 25 minutes, until golden and crispy.
7. Cooling and serving:
After baking, let the pastry cool for 15 minutes before cutting it. Use a very sharp knife to obtain beautiful portions. You can serve the pastry warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or yogurt.
Practical tips
- Ingredient temperature: Make sure all ingredients, especially the eggs, are at room temperature. This helps achieve a uniform and elastic dough.
- Kneading: Do not rush the kneading process; a well-kneaded dough is key to a successful pastry.
- Variations: You can add other fillings, such as spinach or mushrooms, to diversify the flavors.
- Serving: The pastry pairs perfectly with a glass of refreshing yogurt or a dry white wine.
Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of pastry contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of cheese used. It is a good source of protein from the cheese and carbohydrates from the flour, but consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the dough will have a different texture and may require more water.
- Can the pastry be frozen? Yes, it is recommended to freeze it before baking. You can bake it directly from the freezer, but it will require additional baking time.
- How long can it be stored? The pastry is best consumed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
With this information, you are ready to prepare a delicious pastry that will impress any guest. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!
Ingredients: 1kg of flour, 1/2 cup of oil (250 ml cup), 2 eggs, about 2 teaspoons of salt, 450-500 ml of warm water, oil for rolling out the dough, for the filling: sheep cheese, slightly salted cow cheese, without egg, herbs - dill and green onion.
