Filo pastries with sheep cheese and za'atar - Meat pastries specific to Arab countries

Puff Pastries with Sheep's Feta and Za'atar - An Explosion of Flavors and Tradition

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12 pastries

Who doesn't love a dish that combines the crispy texture of French pastry with a savory filling of cheese or meat? These puff pastries with sheep's feta and za'atar are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, perfect for a quick snack or to impress guests at a festive meal. Let's discover this recipe together!

Necessary ingredients

To prepare these delicious pastries, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 package of frozen puff pastry
- 150 grams of ground beef
- 100 grams of sheep's feta
- 2 teaspoons of za'atar
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 50 grams of pine nuts
- 1 egg
- Toasted sesame seeds, for decoration
- Cumin seeds, for decoration
- Meat spices: 1 teaspoon blend (allspice, white pepper, cinnamon, ginger, coriander, nutmeg, cumin, cardamom, dried lemon)
- Salt, to taste

A bit of history

Za'atar is a fascinating spice with deep roots in the culinary culture of many regions. It is a widely used aromatic blend that varies from household to household, each having its unique recipe and secrets. Typically, it contains dried oregano, dried lemon, and toasted sesame seeds. This spice adds a note of freshness and complexity to dishes, making the pastries truly special.

Preparing the fillings

1. Cheese filling: Start by grating the sheep's feta using a coarse grater. Add the 2 teaspoons of za'atar and mix well until the cheese is evenly blended with the spices. This filling is simple yet full of flavor!

2. Meat filling: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and sauté until golden, then remove them to a bowl. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the ground beef and spices (salt and meat spice blend). Cook until the meat is well done, then mix in the toasted pine nuts. Let the filling cool slightly.

Assembling the pastries

3. Preparing the dough: Remove the puff pastry from the freezer and let it thaw for a few minutes until it becomes easy to handle. Once the dough is thawed, cut it into squares of about 10x10 cm.

4. Shaping the pastries: Each square of dough is divided into two triangles. Fill each triangle with a tablespoon of cheese or meat filling. Then, fold the triangle and press the edges with a fork to seal the pastry well.

Baking

5. Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg with a little water and brush each pastry with the mixture obtained. Sprinkle cumin seeds and toasted sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture.

6. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake the pastries for about 20 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy.

Serving and variations

The pastries can be served warm or cold, making them ideal for picnics or parties. A personal touch you can add is serving them alongside a yogurt sauce with mint or a fresh salad.

Useful tips

- Make sure the dough is well thawed; otherwise, it will be difficult to handle.
- Experiment with different types of cheese or add vegetables to the filling for a vegetarian option.
- If you want a more intense flavor, add a little cumin or sweet paprika to the meat filling.

Nutritional benefits

These pastries are a good source of protein due to the meat and cheese used. Additionally, pine nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, while za'atar adds a note of freshness and nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Of course! You can experiment with chicken, lamb, or even vegetable fillings.

2. Can I freeze the pastries?
Yes, you can freeze the pastries before baking. Make sure to seal them well.

3. What can I serve the pastries with?
These pastries pair perfectly with a yogurt sauce, but you can also opt for a fresh salad or chutney.

In conclusion, these puff pastries with sheep's feta and za'atar are not only a quick and easy recipe but also a delicacy full of tradition and flavor. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or just for a snack, they are sure to be appreciated by everyone who tastes them. Enjoy!