Savory cheese and eggplant pastries

Savory Cheese and Eggplant Pastries – A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

If you are among the cooking enthusiasts or simply enjoy indulging in tasty dishes, this recipe for savory cheese and eggplant pastries will surely become one of your favorites. This delicious appetizer is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The flaky pastry, rich and flavorful filling all come together to create an unforgettable culinary experience.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12 pastries

The inspiration behind this recipe comes from cooking traditions, where various fillings and flaky dough intertwine in savory dishes. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 1 package of filo pastry (Turkish dough)

For the filling:
- 250 g cottage cheese
- 250 g salty telemea cheese 5%
- 2 roasted and drained eggplants
- 2 cloves of crushed garlic
- A pinch of pepper
- A pinch of za'atar
- 1 tablespoon of starch (to help bind the mixture)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- Sesame seeds (for decoration)

Necessary utensils
- Large bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Knife and cutting board
- Masher or blender (optional, for mashing the eggplants)

Step by step

1. Preparing the dough:
Take the dough out of the freezer the night before and let it thaw in the refrigerator. This step is essential, as well-thawed dough will be easier to handle.

2. Preparing the filling:
In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese well with the salty telemea cheese. Make sure the telemea cheese is crumbled well so that it integrates perfectly into the mixture. Add the roasted eggplants, which have been drained and diced. If you are using grilled eggplants, choose those with thin skin, as they have a sweeter and more aromatic taste.

Add the crushed garlic, a pinch of pepper, and the za'atar, which will provide a savory and exotic note to your filling. Za'atar is a spice blend that may include oregano, thyme, sumac, and sesame, adding depth of flavor. Finally, add the tablespoon of starch to help bind the filling and mix everything well.

3. Forming the pastries:
On a clean surface, roll out the sheet of dough. Once you have an even sheet of dough, cut it into squares of about 10 cm. Use a teaspoon to place the filling in the center of each square, being careful not to overfill each portion. Fold the dough into triangles, pressing the edges well to seal the filling inside.

4. Preparing for baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg with a pinch of salt and brush each triangle with this mixture, then sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a crunchy and appealing look.

5. Baking:
Bake the pastries in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy. You will be surprised by the aroma that will fill the kitchen while baking!

6. Serving:
Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. They are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them with a fresh vegetable salad or a garlic yogurt sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Useful tips
- Variations of the filling: You can experiment with different cheeses like feta or ricotta, or add spinach, mushrooms, or olives for a heartier filling.
- Care for the dough: Make sure the dough is not left at room temperature for too long, as it can become soft. Work quickly and efficiently.
- Storing the pastries: If you have leftover pastries, you can keep them in the refrigerator for a few days, and for a crispy texture, you can reheat them in the oven.

Nutritional benefits
Cheese is an excellent source of calcium and protein, and eggplants are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. These pastries can be included in a balanced diet and, thanks to their ingredients, can provide a feeling of satiety.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use puff pastry?
Yes, you can also use puff pastry for a fluffier texture.
- Can I make the pastries in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day ahead, and before serving, you can bake them to bring them to life.
- What drinks pair well with these pastries?
These pastries pair perfectly with a refreshing white wine or mint tea.

These savory cheese and eggplant pastries are not only delicious but also an excellent way to bring friends and family together. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or as part of a main meal, they are sure to impress everyone. So put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and enjoy the cooking process! Bon appétit!