Appetizer cigars

Cheese and Dill Cigars - Quick and Delicious Appetizer

When it comes to spontaneous gatherings with friends or family, a quick appetizer that impresses is exactly what we desire. Today, I propose a simple and tasty recipe for cheese and dill cigars. These delicious treats are easy to prepare and extremely versatile, perfect for serving warm alongside a glass of wine or a cold beer. Moreover, they are also ideal for being enjoyed cold, so you don't have to worry if your guests are running a bit late. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 (depending on portion size)

Ingredients

- 400 g phyllo dough
- 250 g cheese (can be feta, telemea, cottage cheese, or braided cheese)
- 2 eggs (one whole and one egg white)
- 50 g fresh dill (finely chopped)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Oil (for brushing the phyllo dough)
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)

Recipe History

Cheese cigars have a long history, being appreciated in various cultures as appetizers or snacks. They blend tradition with innovation, having roots in simple yet flavorful dishes. Over time, the ingredients have been adapted based on local culinary preferences, but the base remains unchanged: crispy phyllo dough, delicious fillings, and quick preparation.

Preparing the Cigars

1. Thaw the phyllo dough: Remove the phyllo sheets from the freezer and let them thaw. This step is essential to avoid tearing the sheets during rolling.

2. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, start by grating or crumbling the chosen cheese. You can combine multiple types of cheese for a more complex flavor. Add one whole egg, one egg white (reserve the yolk for a shiny finish), and the finely chopped fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until the ingredients are well combined.

3. Prepare the phyllo sheets: On a clean work surface, unfold the phyllo sheets. Brush each sheet with a little oil, then stack four sheets on top of each other. This will add extra crunch to your cigars.

4. Cut the sheets: Using a sharp knife, cut the stacked sheets into rectangles of your desired size. Typically, a stack of sheets is divided into 9 or 12 pieces.

5. Fill and roll the cigars: Take a teaspoon of the cheese filling and place it on the edge of a dough rectangle. Roll the sheet tightly into a cigar shape, making sure to seal the ends well to prevent the filling from leaking.

6. Bake: Place the cigars on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush them with the egg yolk mixed with a tablespoon of oil to achieve a golden and shiny crust. Preheat the oven to 160°C and bake the cigars for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy.

7. Serve: The cigars are most delicious served warm, but they are equally tasty when cold. You can accompany them with a fresh salad or yogurt dips for a refreshing contrast.

Practical Tips

- Choose the right cheese: You can experiment with various types of cheese. For example, feta adds a salty note, while cottage cheese makes the filling creamier.
- Keep the phyllo sheets moist: Cover the sheets with a damp towel while working with them to prevent drying out.
- Vary the spices: Add herbs like basil or oregano to change the flavor profile of the cigars.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of dill?
If you don't have dill, you can use fresh parsley or even marjoram to add an interesting flavor.

Can I prepare the cigars in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cigars a little ahead of baking. You can keep them in the fridge covered, and before baking, brush them with the yolk and bake them according to the instructions.

What other recipes can I combine with the cigars?
These cigars go wonderfully alongside a fresh green salad or as part of an appetizer platter, including hummus, olives, and fresh vegetables.

Nutritional Benefits

These cheese and dill cigars are a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, while also providing vitamins from the dill. Although they contain oil for cooking, moderate portions can fit into a balanced diet. Each cigar has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used and size.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left to do is start cooking! Impress your guests with these delicious cigars and enjoy joyful moments together. Bon appétit!