Cheese and dill pastries

Delicious pastries with whey cheese and dill

If you are looking for a quick appetizer or snack recipe, these pastries with whey cheese and dill are the perfect choice. With a crispy dough and a flavorful filling, these pastries are ideal for both a gathering with friends and a festive meal.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 12 pastries

Recipe history: Pastries have a long tradition in various culinary cultures, often filled with a variety of ingredients, from meat to cheese or vegetables. This version with whey cheese and dill combines the creamy texture of the cheese with the fresh flavors of dill, bringing a touch of freshness and joy in every bite.

Ingredients:
- 400 g puff pastry (for a crispy and fluffy dough)
- 400 g whey cheese (an excellent source of protein and calcium)
- 150 g sour cream (for creaminess and delicious taste)
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley (for an extra flavor)
- 4 teaspoons fresh chopped dill (for a fresh note)
- 2 eggs (to bind the ingredients)
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar (for a sweet-sour taste)
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing the pastries)
- Sesame seeds (for a crunchy topping)
- Baking paper (to prevent sticking)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the filling: In a medium-sized bowl, add the whey cheese, sour cream, eggs, dried parsley, fresh dill, and brown sugar. Mix well using a spatula or a fork until you obtain a smooth mixture. Make sure the whey cheese is well mashed so that the filling is creamy and easy to spread.

2. Preparing the puff pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a clean surface. Use a knife or a scraper to cut the dough into squares of about 10x10 cm. You can use a ruler to ensure all squares are the same size.

3. Filling the pastries: Place a large spoonful of the whey cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Try not to overfill, otherwise they may open during baking.

4. Shaping the pastries: Fold the corners of the squares over the filling to create a small package. Make sure the edges are well sealed so that the filling does not leak during baking. You can use water to moisten the edges, which helps seal them.

5. Preparing for baking: Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with baking paper, making sure to leave space between them to allow them to puff up. Using a brush, glaze each pastry with the egg yolk to achieve a golden and shiny crust. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a more attractive appearance and added flavor.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the tray in the oven and bake the pastries for about 20 minutes, or until they become golden and fluffy. You will know they are ready when the filling starts to ooze slightly from the edges, and the delicious aroma fills your kitchen.

7. Serving: These pastries can be served warm or cold, according to preference. They are excellent alongside a fresh green salad or a yogurt dip with dill.

Practical tips:
- Use fresh whey cheese for the best results. If the whey cheese is too wet, you can let it drain a bit in a cheesecloth bag before using it.
- You can also add other herbs, such as basil or oregano, to customize the recipe according to your tastes.
- If you want to make a vegetarian version, you can replace the whey cheese with feta or ricotta cheese.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with feta cheese or even cottage cheese, but adjust the amount of sour cream according to the desired consistency.

2. How can I keep the pastries fresh?
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.

3. Can these pastries be frozen?
Yes, unbaked pastries can be frozen. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer, then transfer them to an airtight container. When you want to prepare them, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Calories and nutritional benefits: Each pastry has approximately 180-200 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. Whey cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins, while dill contributes antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

These pastries with whey cheese and dill are not only a delicious choice but also a healthy one, perfect for impressing anyone at the table. Try them and let yourself be carried away by their enticing aromas!