Skirts in the waist

Poale-n brau: Cheese-filled pastries

Who doesn't love the aroma of warm, steaming pastries that melt in your mouth? Poale-n brau are a perfect choice for any occasion. This sweet cheese pastry recipe is one of the most beloved, and I had the privilege of learning it from my grandmother, a true master of the culinary arts. I invite you to join me on this culinary journey, where we will create a delicacy with a unique taste and an aroma that will fill your home with joy.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 10 minutes (30-35 minutes for rising + 30-40 minutes for baking)
Number of servings: 12 pastries

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 600 g flour
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 150 g sugar
- 200 ml lukewarm milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Zest of one lemon
- 150 g butter, melted and cooled

*For the filling:*
- 700 g sweet cheese (preferably cow's cheese)
- 2 tablespoons semolina
- 2 egg yolks
- 100 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon essence

Preparation:

1. Preparing the dough: Start by dissolving the yeast in the lukewarm milk. Add one tablespoon of the 150 g sugar and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to activate the yeast and achieve a fluffy dough.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt, the remaining sugar, and the grated lemon zest. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, the beaten eggs, and the melted butter. Mix with a spatula until the ingredients begin to come together.

3. Kneading the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured work surface and knead for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

4. Rising the dough: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30-35 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy pastries.

5. Preparing the filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a bowl, combine the sweet cheese, semolina, egg yolks, sugar, and lemon essence. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. Taste the filling and adjust the sugar amount according to your preferences. You can also add a splash of vanilla for extra flavor.

6. Shaping the pastries: Once the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal balls. Flatten each ball into a round disc on a lightly floured surface. Add 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each disc.

7. Wrapping the pastries: Fold each disc so that the filling is covered, forming a pastry. Ensure that the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

8. Baking the pastries: Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them to expand. Brush each pastry with beaten egg for a golden and appetizing crust. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the pastries for 30-40 minutes or until golden.

Practical tips:
- Use quality sweet cheese for a good taste. Cow's cheese is ideal, but you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for a distinct flavor.
- You can add raisins or pieces of candied fruit to the filling for a more interesting taste.
- These pastries can be served warm, but they are also delicious at room temperature. You can serve them with sour cream or a scoop of natural yogurt for an extra freshness.
- If you have leftover filling, don't throw it away! You can use it to fill pancakes or other desserts.

Nutritional values (per serving):
Calories: approximately 280 kcal
Protein: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fats: 12 g

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the dough will have a different texture and will require more liquid.
- Can I freeze the pastries? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pastries. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.
- How can I make the pastries less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and dough according to your preferences.

Serving suggestions:
These poale-n brau pair perfectly with a cup of tea or aromatic coffee. If you want a more special culinary experience, try them with a fruit sauce or vanilla ice cream, which will contrast beautifully with the warmth of the pastries.

In conclusion, poale-n brau are not just a delicious recipe but also a precious childhood memory that brings the family together. Don't hesitate to try this simple and quick recipe, and impress your friends and family with these wonderful pastries. Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Enjoy!