Pies

Delicious cheese pastries - a simple and savory recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8 pastries

Welcome to our kitchen, where we will discover together how to prepare some delicious pastries filled with cheese and other goodies! These crispy delights are perfect for any occasion, whether served as an appetizer at a party, a snack at the office, or even a savory breakfast. I invite you to put on your apron and join this simple yet flavorful culinary process!

A brief story about pastries

Pastries are a delicacy appreciated in many cultures, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many peoples. This particular recipe combines the crispy texture of the dough with rich fillings, offering a contrast of flavors and textures that delights any palate. Whether you fill them with cheese, meat, or mushrooms, pastries are a versatile and delicious choice.

Ingredients

For the dough:

- 250 g margarine
- 250 g cottage cheese
- 250 g flour
- 1 egg

For the filling:

- 200 g cottage cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon sheep cheese (optional)
or
- 150 g sausage, diced
or
- 150 g mushrooms, sautéed and chopped

For finishing:

- 1 egg for brushing
- Poppy seeds or sesame seeds for sprinkling

Useful for the recipe

- A baking tray
- Baking paper
- A mixing bowl
- A rolling pin for rolling out the dough
- A knife or a pastry cutter for portioning

Step by step: Preparing the pastries

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add softened margarine (it can be left at room temperature to soften) and cottage cheese. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. It is important that there are no lumps, so make sure to mash the cheese well.

2. Adding dry ingredients: Sprinkle the flour over the margarine and cheese mixture. Add an egg and mix everything with a spatula or by hand until you get a uniform and easy-to-shape dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

3. Chilling the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a crispy texture.

4. Preparing the filling: In another bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, and, if desired, sheep cheese. Mix well until you have a homogeneous composition. If you choose to use sausage or mushrooms, make sure they are well prepared and cooled before adding them.

5. Rolling out the dough: Remove the dough from the fridge and, on a surface dusted with flour, roll it out into a thin sheet, about 3-5 mm thick. Use a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness, being careful not to let it stick.

6. Cutting and filling: Cut the dough into rectangles of the desired size (approximately 10x8 cm). On each rectangle, add a tablespoon of the cheese filling or, alternatively, a cube of sausage or a few mushrooms. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges well to seal them.

7. Brushing and sprinkling: In a small bowl, beat an egg and brush each pastry with a pastry brush. This will help achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Sprinkle poppy seeds or sesame seeds on top for extra flavor and a nice appearance.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F). Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with baking paper, leaving enough space between them to expand. Bake for 30 minutes or until they become golden and crispy.

9. Serving: Once the pastries are baked, let them cool slightly before serving. They are delicious both warm and cold. You can accompany them with a fresh salad or a yogurt and garlic sauce for a refreshing note.

Practical tips

- Variations of the filling: Depending on your preferences, you can experiment with various fillings, such as spinach and feta cheese or minced meat with spices. Be creative and adapt the recipe to your tastes.
- Other types of cheese: You can use mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a different flavor. Sheep cheese adds an intense taste, but you can skip it if you prefer a milder filling.
- Care for the dough: Make sure the dough does not get too warm during preparation. If you feel it is getting too soft, you can return it to the fridge for a few minutes.
- Finding the perfect balance: Adjust the amounts of filling to achieve an ideal proportion between dough and filling. Do not overfill, or the pastries may open during baking.

Nutritional benefits

These pastries are a good source of protein, thanks to the cheese and egg, making them perfect for energizing your day. They also contain healthy fats from margarine, and if you opt for vegetable or lean meat fillings, you will have a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can replace margarine with butter, but make sure it is at room temperature to incorporate easily into the dough.

2. How can I store leftover pastries?
Pastries can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy crust.

3. Can I freeze the pastries?
Yes, they can be frozen before baking. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to bake them, there is no need to thaw them; you can put them directly in the oven.

Recommended pairings

These delicious pastries can be served alongside a refreshing drink, such as a natural fruit juice or iced tea. Additionally, a glass of white or rosé wine can perfectly complement the flavors of the pastries, turning them into an elegant appetizer.

Personal note

I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who taught me all the secrets of these pastries. Every bite reminds me of those moments filled with warmth and love. I recommend involving your family in this process too, to create beautiful memories and enjoy these delights together!

Enjoy the cooking process and the final result! Every pastry you prepare is a small culinary masterpiece, ready to be savored. Bon appétit!