Pies with green za'atar (oregano)

Green za'atar (oregano) pies - a traditional delicacy

When it comes to delicious pies, those with green za'atar (oregano) hold a special place in the hearts of many from regions with rich culinary traditions. These pies, filled with aromatic cheese and fresh oregano, are an excellent choice for a light dinner or a savory appetizer. Oregano is a versatile herb that grows easily and has a distinctive aroma, bringing a touch of freshness to every bite. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 pies

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 1 kg of flour
- 250 g of fresh green oregano, chopped (not too finely)
- 400 g of cheese (preferably cottage cheese or curd, but feta cheese can also be used)
- 2 tablespoons of dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (optional)
- 3 medium onions, finely chopped
- 150 ml of olive oil
- Warm water, for kneading
- Olive oil, for greasing the trays

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the oregano thoroughly in several waters to remove impurities. After washing, let it drain and cut it into larger pieces, making sure to use only the leaves. This step ensures that its aroma remains vibrant.

2. Sautéing the onions: In a skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes golden and soft. This process will intensify the onion's flavor, adding depth to the filling. Once the onion has cooled, set it aside.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, place the flour and make a well in the center. Add the dry yeast and sugar, then add a little warm water. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes until the yeast becomes active and frothy.

4. Mixing the ingredients: Once the yeast is activated, add the sautéed onion (with the oil), chopped oregano, and crumbled cheese. If the cheese is not salty, add salt to taste. Start mixing the ingredients, gradually adding warm water and kneading the dough.

5. Kneading: Knead the dough for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes soft, elastic, and slightly sticky. It is important to achieve a well-kneaded dough that is not overly sticky. If necessary, you can add a little more flour or water, depending on the desired consistency.

6. Letting the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until the volume of the dough doubles.

7. Shaping the pies: Once the dough has risen, grease the work surface with a little olive oil and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 5-6 mm. Use a glass to cut circles from the dough. Place each circle in a greased tray.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C (about 400°F) and bake the pies for 20 minutes or until they are golden and browned.

9. Finishing: Once the pies are baked, remove them from the oven and brush them with a little olive oil to give them an appetizing shine. Let them cool slightly on a plate.

10. Serving: Green za'atar pies can be served warm or cold. They add flavor when accompanied by a creamy red lentil soup.

Practical tips:

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta cheese, to achieve different flavors. If you want a spicier taste, add a little chopped hot pepper to the filling.
- Caring for oregano: If you have fresh oregano on hand, make sure to keep it in water or in a cool place to maintain its lively aroma. Dried oregano can be used, but the flavor will not be as intense.
- Serving: These pies are excellent for family meals, parties, or as snacks for a picnic.

Nutritional benefits:

- Oregano is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin E, calcium, and fiber.
- Cheese provides quality protein and calcium, essential for bone health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour to add extra fiber and a more robust flavor to the pies.

2. How can I store the pies?
The pies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them.

3. What drinks pair well with these pies?
These pies pair wonderfully with aromatic mint tea or fresh lemonade, providing a pleasant contrast to the rich flavors of the filling.

Green za'atar pies are more than just a dish; they bring together tradition, taste, and health, turning every meal into a special experience. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: Dough - 1 kg flour - 250 g chopped green oregano (not too finely) - 400 g cheese (not too salty, can be cottage cheese with added salt to taste) - 2 tablespoons of yeast + 2 tablespoons of sugar (optional) - 3 medium onions finely chopped - 150 ml olive oil - water for kneading - olive oil for greasing the trays