Cheese and spinach pie

Cheese and Spinach Pide – A Warm and Savory Delight

Total Time: 2 hours (including 1 hour of rising)
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 30-40 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

If you are looking for a quick dessert recipe that will bring a smile to your loved ones' faces, then I invite you to discover cheese and spinach pide. This recipe combines the fluffy texture of the dough with the creamy filling of cheese and spinach, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. It is an excellent choice for both lunch and a light dinner.

A Brief History

Pide is a traditional recipe, very popular in various culinary cultures, with deep roots in gastronomic history. Over time, it has evolved and adapted to the available ingredients, but it has always remained a cherished choice for its rich and consistent taste. Today, pide variations can include various fillings, from minced meat to vegetables, but the combination with cheese and spinach remains one of the most beloved.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 200 g flour
- 100 ml warm milk
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the filling:
- 200 g salty cheese (telemea or cottage cheese)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 200 g fresh spinach (or 100 g frozen spinach)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix the flour with the dry yeast, salt, and sugar. These ingredients are essential to activate the yeast, and the sugar helps with better rising.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the warm milk and olive oil. The milk should not be hot, but warm, so as not to kill the yeast.
- Start kneading the dough, adding a little extra flour if necessary, until you obtain an elastic and homogeneous dough that no longer sticks to your hands. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy texture.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.

2. Preparing the Filling
- Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a bowl, crumble the cheese and add the egg, sour cream, washed and finely chopped spinach, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is well thawed and drained.
- Mix all the ingredients well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

3. Shaping the Pides
- Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out each piece of dough into an oval sheet about 0.5 cm thick.
- Place the cheese and spinach filling in the center of each sheet, leaving about 3 cm of edges free.
- Fold the edges over the filling so that the ends meet in the middle, forming a boat shape. This appearance is not only aesthetic but also helps keep the filling inside.

4. Rising and Baking
- Place the pide boats on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Let them rise for 10-15 minutes, covering them with a towel. This step will help achieve a fluffier texture.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Before baking the pides, brush them with a mixture of egg yolk and a little milk to give them a beautiful golden color. Sprinkle with poppy or sesame seeds on top if desired.
- Bake the pides for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and crispy around the edges.

5. Serving
- Cheese and spinach pide is served warm, but it is just as delicious cold. It can be accompanied by a fresh salad or a yogurt garlic sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Practical Tips
- Filling Variations: You can also add other ingredients such as sautéed mushrooms, sautéed onions, or olives to diversify the flavor.
- Dough in a Bread Machine: If you want to save time, you can use a bread machine to prepare the dough. Follow the machine's instructions for the appropriate ingredients and functions.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: A serving of pide contains approximately 350-400 calories, being a good source of protein and fiber, thanks to the cheese, spinach, and whole wheat flour (if you choose to use whole wheat flour). Spinach is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with feta cheese, ricotta, or even mozzarella for a different texture.

How can I store leftover pides?
Leftover pides can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave before serving.

What drinks pair well with pide?
Natural yogurt or a fresh fruit smoothie would perfectly complement this recipe. Additionally, a refreshing lemonade or mint tea would provide a pleasant contrast.

Personal Note

I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen when my mother prepared cheese and spinach pide, and the enticing aroma gathered us all around the table. This recipe is not just a simple culinary dish but also a way to reminisce about the beautiful moments shared with loved ones. I encourage you to try it and adapt it to your taste. Enjoy every bite and turn it into a moment of joy!

Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, cheese and spinach pide will surely become a favorite recipe in your family!