Cheese-filled pastries

Cheese-filled pastries: A delicious and comforting recipe

Who doesn't love the aroma of warm, crispy pastries filled with savory cheese? These cheese-filled pastries are perfect for a hearty breakfast, a quick snack, or even an appetizer at a party. With a simple and easy-to-follow recipe, I invite you to join me on this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12 pastries

The History of Pastries

Pastries have a rich history, being consumed over the centuries in various cultures. They symbolize comfort and the warmth of home, often prepared in family settings. Whether filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables, pastries bring a sense of familiarity and joy in every bite.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream (choose a rich one for a fuller flavor)
- 125g margarine (Rama or a similar variant)
- 1/2 cup of milk (about 120 ml)
- 100g of cheese (grated, for an intense aroma)
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (or baking soda)
- 500g of flour (or more, depending on the dough consistency)
- 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- 300g of salty cheese (without whey, for a perfect filling)

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the dough

In a large bowl, add the sour cream, cubed margarine, and milk. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Then add the grated cheese, salt, baking powder, and mix again.

Step 2: Adding the flour

Start incorporating the flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or your hands. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not stick to your hands. If necessary, you can add a little extra flour. Finally, if desired, incorporate the caraway seeds for added flavor.

Step 3: Resting the dough

Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. This step is important as it allows the gluten to develop, making the pastries fluffier.

Step 4: Shaping the pastries

After the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface to about 5 mm thick. Use a glass or a cutter to cut round shapes from the dough.
On each dough circle, place a tablespoon of salty cheese. Close the pastry, ensuring that the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

Step 5: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pastries on a greased baking tray, making sure to leave a little space between them. Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden. Five minutes before they are done, take the pastries out of the oven and brush them with beaten egg for a shiny crust.

Step 6: Serving the pastries

Once the pastries are ready, let them cool slightly before enjoying. They are delicious warm, but can also be eaten cold. You can serve them alongside a fresh salad, a portion of yogurt, or even a spicy tomato sauce for a refined contrast.

Suggestions and Variations

- Filling variations: Instead of salty cheese, you can use cottage cheese mixed with herbs or sautéed spinach. You can also add olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
- Seed pastries: Add sesame or poppy seeds on top of the pastries before baking for an attractive look and a crunchy taste.
- Sweet pastries: Transform this recipe into a sweet one by using a filling of sweet cheese or fruit compote.

Practical tips

- Finding the perfect cheese: Choose a cheese with a higher fat content for a richer flavor. Feta or telemea cheese are excellent options.
- Ingredient temperature: Make sure the margarine and sour cream are at room temperature for easier incorporation into the dough.
- Check the dough consistency: The dough should not be too sticky, but also not too dry. Adjust the amount of flour based on the humidity in the air.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Absolutely! Butter will provide a richer flavor, but make sure it is at room temperature for proper incorporation.

2. What can I do with leftover dough?
You can make cheese straws. Add a bit of caraway or grated cheese, cut the dough into strips, and bake until golden.

3. How long do the pastries last?
Pastries keep well in the fridge for 2-3 days, but we recommend consuming them fresh to enjoy their crispy texture.

Nutritional Benefits

These cheese-filled pastries are an excellent source of protein due to the cheese and egg. The flour provides essential carbohydrates for energy. Adding caraway seeds not only enhances the aroma but also offers digestive benefits.

Conclusion

These cheese-filled pastries are not only a delicious recipe but also a versatile option that can be adapted to your preferences. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, they will surely delight you. So, put on a smile and get started in the kitchen! The delight awaits you!