Cheese and parsley pies

Cheese and Parsley Pies

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 10-12 pies

The history of cheese and parsley pies is fascinating, as these delights have been enjoyed by generations. Their origins are found in diverse culinary traditions, where the fluffy dough and rich cheese filling have captured the hearts of housewives and diners alike. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a main meal, these pies are versatile and delicious.

In this recipe, we will focus on preparing easy-to-make cheese and parsley pies, rich in flavors and textures. We will use simple yet quality ingredients to ensure a perfect result every time.

Ingredients for the dough:
- 400 g flour
- 1 packet of dry yeast (about 7 g)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 120 ml milk
- 120 ml yogurt
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 egg

Ingredients for the filling:
- 250 g cow cheese (preferably fresh)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley

Step by step: Preparing the dough

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to facilitate fermentation. The milk and yogurt should be slightly warm, and the egg should be at room temperature.

2. Mixing the liquid ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt. Add the milk and yogurt, mixing well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

3. Activating the yeast: Sprinkle the dry yeast and sugar over the liquid mixture. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to make the dough fluffy.

4. Incorporating the flour: Start adding the flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or your hands. Continue adding flour until the dough becomes soft and elastic but not sticky. It is essential not to add too much flour, as we want a fluffy texture.

5. Kneading the dough: Once the dough is formed, knead it for about 5-7 minutes on a lightly floured surface. This process will help develop the gluten, ensuring an airy texture for the pies.

6. Letting it rise: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about an hour or until it doubles in volume.

Preparing the filling

1. Preparing the cheese: Grate the cow cheese into a bowl. Make sure to use fresh cheese, as it will add extra flavor to the pies.

2. Chopping the parsley: Wash the parsley under a stream of cold water and dry it gently. Chop it finely and add it to the cheese. Mix well to combine the flavors. If you want a richer filling, you can also add some chopped olives or a little dill.

Forming the pies

1. Preparing the risen dough: After the dough has risen, knead it again for a few minutes to remove air bubbles. Divide it into 10-12 equal pieces, depending on the desired size of the pies.

2. Rolling out the dough: Sprinkle flour on the working surface and, using a rolling pin, roll each piece of dough into a thin circle. Be careful not to roll them out too much, or they will dry out while frying.

3. Filling the pies: Use a spoon to place the cheese filling in the center. Make sure not to put too much filling to avoid overflow during cooking.

4. Closing the pies: Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon. Press the edges with a fork to seal them well and prevent the cheese from leaking.

Cooking the pies

1. Heating the oil: In a deep pan, heat enough oil to cover the pies while frying. Test the oil temperature by dropping a small amount of dough – if it rises to the surface and starts to brown, the oil is ready.

2. Frying the pies: Carefully add the pies to the hot oil, frying them on both sides until golden and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, so the oil temperature remains constant.

3. Removing the pies: Use a spatula to remove the fried pies and place them on a platter lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Serving and variations

These cheese and parsley pies are delicious both hot and cold. You can serve them alongside a fresh vegetable salad or with a garlic yogurt sauce for a more flavorful culinary experience. You can also experiment with various fillings, such as feta cheese, spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms, to diversify the recipe.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace cow cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use feta cheese or telemea for a saltier and more intense flavor.

2. How can I store the pies?
The pies can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan to restore their crispy texture.

3. Can I freeze the pies?
Yes, you can freeze the raw or fried pies. If freezing them raw, make sure to place them in a single layer on a tray before putting them in a bag and freezing.

Nutritional benefits

These pies provide a good source of protein due to the cheese, while the parsley adds essential vitamins and minerals. The flour used contributes to the carbohydrate intake, providing you with the energy needed for an active day. You can adapt the recipe by using whole wheat flour for a higher fiber content.

Enjoy your cheese and parsley pies, a simple and tasty recipe perfect for any occasion! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 400 g flour, 1 packet of dry yeast, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 120 ml milk, 120 ml yogurt, a pinch of salt, 1 egg. For the filling: 250 g cottage cheese, 1 bunch of parsley.