Cheese pastries

Cheese Pastries – a delicious and simple recipe, perfect for any occasion

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will share with you a wonderful recipe for cheese pastries that will surely win the hearts and taste buds of everyone. These pastries are perfect for a quick snack, an appetizer at a party, or even for a savory breakfast. I invite you to discover this delight that combines the crispy texture of puff pastry with the creamy cheese filling.

The history of the cheese pastry recipe is fascinating, as it is a variation of traditional dishes found in many cultures. They have evolved over time, becoming a symbol of hospitality and festive meals. Whether filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables, pastries are appreciated for their versatility and flavor.

Let’s get to work!

Ingredients

- 1 package of puff pastry (approximately 400g)
- 500g telemea cheese (or feta cheese as an alternative)
- 2 whole eggs
- 2 tablespoons of semolina
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream (preferably fatty)
- 1 egg for brushing
- 1 tablespoon of white sesame
- 1 tablespoon of black sesame
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient details

Telemea cheese: This adds an intense and salty flavor to the dish. If you prefer a creamier filling, you can use cottage cheese or ricotta mixed with telemea.

Semolina: This is a very useful ingredient that helps absorb excess moisture from the cheese, giving a pleasant texture.

Puff pastry: Make sure the pastry is well chilled before use to achieve that slightly crispy texture. You can use store-bought puff pastry or, if you have the time and patience, make it at home.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the filling:
In a large bowl, add the crumbled telemea cheese with a fork. Add the two whole eggs, semolina, and sour cream. Mix well until you get a smooth paste. It’s important to combine the ingredients carefully so that the cheese doesn’t become too liquid. If the filling is too soft, the pastries will lose their consistency.

2. Preparing the pastry:
Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the puff pastry. Cut it into equal squares, about 10x10 cm. These dimensions are ideal for making appropriately sized pastries.

3. Filling the pastries:
On each square of pastry, place a heaping teaspoon of the cheese mixture. Don’t overfill, as it may spill out during baking.

4. Forming the pastries:
Fold the square of pastry over the filling, forming a triangle. Press the edges well to seal the pastry, so the filling doesn’t escape during baking. An excellent method to ensure a perfect seal is to brush the edges with beaten egg before pressing them.

5. Brushing and decorating:
Beat an egg and use it to brush the top of each pastry. This will give a golden and shiny color at the end. Sprinkle the white and black sesame for a beautiful contrast and added flavor.

6. Baking:
Place the pastries on a tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them. Preheat the oven to 200°C and bake the pastries for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy. The delicious smell that will fill the kitchen will make you eagerly await to taste them.

Serving and suggestions

Cheese pastries are delicious served warm, but you can also enjoy them cold. They are excellent alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt sauce with dill and garlic. You can also try pairing them with a white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add some extra ingredients to the filling, such as:
- Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or basil)
- Sautéed onion for a more intense flavor
- Olives or red peppers for a splash of color and flavor

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Of course! You can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as feta, ricotta, or cottage cheese. Just make sure to adjust the amount of salt based on the cheese you choose.

2. How can I store the pastries?
The pastries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven for a few minutes at 180°C.

Nutritional benefits

These cheese pastries are a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs. The semolina adds carbohydrates, and the sour cream provides healthy fats. However, it’s important to consume them in moderation, considering their calorie content.

Calories per serving: Approximately 180-200 kcal, depending on the ingredients used.

I hope you enjoyed discovering this cheese pastry recipe! I encourage you to try it and enjoy every crispy and savory bite. Don’t hesitate to share the final result with friends and family – they will surely appreciate your culinary talent!