Cheese pies

Delicious Cheese Pies – A Classic Recipe Full of Flavor

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total: approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Dreaming of a warm, crunchy, and filling snack? Cheese pies are a treat that will delight your taste buds and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. This recipe is not only simple but also rich in tradition, with deep roots in our gastronomy, where cheese perfectly blends with the delicate pie sheets.

Ingredients:

- 1 package of pie sheets (approximately 400-500 g)
- 500 g cottage cheese (preferably high quality)
- 3 eggs (fresh, preferably organic)
- 200 ml sunflower oil (or olive oil for a slightly different flavor)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon salt (adjustable to taste)

Ingredient details:

- Pie sheets: Choose high-quality pie sheets that thaw easily. Thin sheets are essential for achieving a crunchy pie.
- Cottage cheese: Make sure it is well-drained to avoid a too-wet filling. Fresh cottage cheese will provide a creamy texture and a slightly sweet taste.
- Eggs: They help bind the filling and give it a uniform consistency.
- Onion: Provides a pleasant contrast with the cheese, adding a note of sweetness and flavor.
- Oil: Maintains the juiciness of the pies and helps them become golden and crispy.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the pie sheets: Take the package of pie sheets out of the freezer and let it thaw. Cover it with a damp towel to prevent drying. Let it rest for about 10 minutes on a floured surface.

2. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the 3 eggs. Add the salt and finely chopped onion. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. Taste the filling and adjust the salt if necessary.

3. Rolling out the pie sheets: Use a rolling pin to roll out each pie sheet into a thin layer. This step is essential to ensure a crunchy pie.

4. Greasing the sheets: Use a kitchen brush to grease each sheet with a thin layer of oil. This will help achieve a golden and crispy texture.

5. Adding the filling: Evenly spread the cheese filling on the sheet, leaving a 2-3 cm margin on each side.

6. Rolling the pie: Carefully lift one edge of the sheet and gradually roll it up, forming a tight roll. Make sure the filling stays well wrapped.

7. Cutting and placing in the tray: Cut the roll into equal pieces (about 5-6 cm) and place them in a greased baking tray. You can opt for a round cake pan or a rectangular tray, depending on your preference.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the pies for 45-50 minutes or until they become golden and crispy.

9. Serving: Let the pies cool slightly, then serve them warm, alongside a fresh salad or plain yogurt for a refreshing contrast.

Practical tips and tricks:

- Variations: You can add olives, spinach, or herbs (such as dill or parsley) to the filling to diversify the flavors.
- Storage: If you have leftover pies, you can keep them in the fridge for 2-3 days or freeze them. Reheat in the oven to regain their crispiness.
- Oil: Instead of sunflower oil, you can use extra-virgin olive oil for a more intense flavor.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use feta cheese or telemea cheese? Yes, but adjust the salt in the recipe since these cheeses are saltier.
- How can I make the pies less greasy? You can reduce the amount of oil used or use a cooking spray.

Nutritional benefits:

Cheese pies are rich in protein due to the cheese and eggs, providing a good source of calcium. Additionally, the onion adds fiber and vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet. However, due to the oil content, it's best to consume them in moderation.

Serving suggestions:

These pies pair perfectly with a garlic yogurt sauce or a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and dill. Additionally, a cup of tea or a glass of ayran (yogurt mixed with water) will perfectly complement the meal.

Experiment with this classic recipe and remember the pleasant moments spent around the table with loved ones. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main course, cheese pies will surely bring joy and flavor in every bite!