Cheese Fatayer

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Cheese Fatayer is a savory, Middle Eastern pastry filled with a rich and flavorful cheese mixture, typically made from feta, mozzarella, or a combination of both. These delicate, pocket-shaped pastries are baked until golden brown, with a crispy exterior and a soft, melty cheese center. Often seasoned with herbs like parsley or mint, they’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger meal.

I first made Cheese Fatayer when I wanted to try something new, and it quickly became a favorite in my household. The dough was light and flaky, while the cheese filling was creamy and perfectly seasoned. The pastries were easy to make, and they baked up wonderfully, with the cheese bubbling out just enough to make every bite irresistible.

What’s great about Cheese Fatayer is how versatile the filling can be. You can mix in olives, spices, or even a bit of lemon zest for added flavor. They’re perfect for meal prep, as they freeze well and can be easily reheated. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a delicious snack, Cheese Fatayer is sure to delight your taste buds!

Perfect for:

• Breakfast or brunch
• Snack time
• Parties and gatherings
• Middle Eastern food lovers
• Anyone who loves cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why Cheese Fatayer will become your go-to savory pastry:

• Irresistible Cheese Filling: The combination of feta, mozzarella, and herbs is both creamy and tangy, making every bite a flavor explosion.
• Soft, Flaky Dough: The dough is buttery and soft, with just the right amount of flakiness that pairs perfectly with the filling.
• Quick to Make: These pastries come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute snacking or as an appetizer.
• Versatile Filling: You can easily adjust the cheese mixture to suit your taste, adding herbs or spices as you like.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for a quick snack or meal.
• Fun to Make with Family or Friends: Rolling out the dough and stuffing the pockets is a fun, hands-on activity.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or a fancy appetizer for a gathering, these pastries fit the bill.
• Easy to Store: They stay fresh for a few days, and you can reheat them without losing their delicious crunch.
• Customizable: Experiment with different cheese varieties or add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Crowd-Pleaser: They’re sure to be a hit at parties, with everyone asking for the recipe!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Resting Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 16 fatayers
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ¾ cup warm water (more if needed)

the Cheese Filling:

• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon water

Ingredient Highlights

• Feta Cheese: Provides a salty, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the mild mozzarella.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a creamy, melty texture to the filling.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint brighten up the filling, giving it a fresh taste.
• Olive Oil: Helps to create a soft, golden dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Dough:

1. Prepare Yeast Mixture: In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Cheese Filling:

6. Mix Cheese and Herbs: In a bowl, combine crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, parsley, mint, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

Assemble the Fatayer:

7. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Divide Dough into Balls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 16 equal portions.
9. Roll Out Dough: Roll each portion into a small circle, about 4 inches in diameter.
10. Fill the Dough Circles: Place a tablespoon of the cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle.
11. Shape the Fatayer: Fold the edges of the dough to form a triangle, pinching the corners to seal the filling inside.
12. Brush with Egg Wash: Place the fatayer on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg wash.

Bake the Fatayer:

13. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fatayer are golden brown and crispy.
14. Cool Slightly: Let the fatayer cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve:

15. Enjoy: Serve warm as a delicious snack or appetizer.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Cheese Fatayer:

• As a Snack: Enjoy these pastries as a savory treat with your afternoon tea.
• For Breakfast: Serve with a side of olives and tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast.
• At Parties: These are perfect finger foods for your next gathering or party.
• With Hummus: Pair with hummus for extra flavor and creaminess.
• As an Appetizer: Serve these before a Middle Eastern-inspired meal, like kebabs or shawarma.
• With a Salad: Pair with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad for a light lunch.
• For a Picnic: Pack these in your picnic basket for a portable, delicious snack.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• For Iftar: These are perfect for breaking your fast during Ramadan.
• With Yogurt Sauce: Dip in a creamy yogurt-based sauce for a cool contrast to the warm pastries.

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheese make all the difference in this recipe.
• Seal the Fatayer Well: Make sure the edges of the dough are tightly pinched to avoid any leaks during baking.
• Rest the Dough: Letting the dough rise is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
• Serve Warm: These pastries taste best when freshly baked and still warm.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the fatayer ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Bake them straight from the freezer when ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

• Spinach and Cheese Fatayer: Add cooked spinach to the filling for a savory variation.
• Za’atar Fatayer: Mix in some za’atar spice for an aromatic, herby flavor.
• Meat Fatayer: Replace the cheese with spiced ground lamb or beef for a heartier filling.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and replace the egg wash with olive oil for a vegan version.
• Spicy Fatayer: Add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped green chilies to the cheese filling for some heat.
• Herb-Infused Dough: Add finely chopped herbs like oregano or thyme into the dough for extra flavor.

Special Equipment

• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough evenly.
• Baking Sheet: To bake the fatayer to a perfect golden brown.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing the egg wash onto the dough.
• Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Pizza Cutter or Knife: To divide the dough into equal portions for rolling.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought dough?
   Yes, you can use store-bought puff pastry or pizza dough for a quicker version of this recipe.
2. How long do these last?
   The fatayer can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
3. Can I freeze these?
   Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked fatayer. Bake them from frozen for about 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
4. Can I make them without cheese?
   Yes, you can fill them with vegetables, meats, or even olives for a different take on fatayer.
5. Can I bake them in advance?
   Yes, you can bake them ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat in the oven before serving.
6. What kind of cheese works best?
   Feta and mozzarella are traditional, but you can experiment with ricotta or goat cheese for a unique flavor.
7. Can I add more herbs to the filling?
   Absolutely! You can add herbs like thyme, oregano, or dill to the filling to suit your taste.
8. How do I know when the fatayer are done?
   They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
9. Can I make these in a larger size?
   Yes, you can make the fatayer larger by rolling out bigger circles of dough. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
10. Can I skip the egg wash?
    Yes, but the egg wash helps the fatayer turn golden and gives them a beautiful shine.

Conclusion

Cheese Fatayer are the perfect balance of soft, flaky dough and savory, creamy cheese filling. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a snack, these pastries are sure to impress. With endless variations and easy preparation, Cheese Fatayer are a versatile, delicious addition to any meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfy your cheese cravings with every bite!