Cheese Fatayer Recipe
Cheese Fatayer is a delicious Middle Eastern savory pastry filled with a blend of mozzarella, feta cheese, and fresh parsley. These golden-baked triangular pockets offer a perfect balance of creamy cheese and herbaceous freshness, making them a favorite appetizer or snack.
- Author: Yana
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 fatayer 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
Cheese Filling
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil, then mix and knead until you form a smooth and elastic dough. Cover and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Make the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, crumbled feta, and finely chopped parsley. Mix well to evenly distribute the herbs and cheese.
- Shape the Fatayer: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal small balls. Roll each ball into a small circle about 4-5 inches in diameter.
- Fill and Fold: Place a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough into a triangle shape by pinching the edges firmly to seal the filling inside.
- Bake: Arrange the filled fatayer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastries turn golden brown and puffed.
- Serve: Let the fatayer cool slightly before serving warm as a delightful snack or appetizer.
Notes
- You can substitute or add other herbs like mint or dill for flavor variation.
- For a crisper crust, brush the fatayer with olive oil before baking.
- The filling can be adjusted to your preferred cheese ratio or include other cheeses.
- These pastries are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in an oven to regain crispness.
Keywords: Cheese Fatayer, Middle Eastern pastry, savory pastries, baked cheese pastries, fatayer recipe