Cheese Fatayer (levantine Savory Hand Pies)
  1. Mix. In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the flour, yeast, sugar, salt and mix well to combine. Add the warm water, warm milk and olive oil. Run the stand mixer with the dough hook until a ball of dough forms, about 5-7 minutes. If you find the dough is sticking to the sides, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

  2. Rise. Rub the dough ball lightly with oil on all sides and let it rise, covered with a tea towel, in the bowl of the stand mixer for 1 hour in a warm place.

  3. Cheese filling. While the dough rises, prepare the cheese mixture by combining the cheese and herbs in a bowl.

  4. Divide and Shape. After the bread dough has risen to about double its original size, divide it into 12 pieces (for standard size) or 18 pieces (for minis). Use a kitchen scale here if you want your fatayer to be evenly sized. Shape each piece of dough into a tight ball and rest them on your kitchen counter for 10 minutes, covered, so that the gluten can relax.

  5. Flatten. Preheat your oven to 400F (205C). Using a rolling pin, flatten the dough balls into a ¼ inch (0.6cm) thick. Place the dough circles in one layer on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. You may need to do this in steps or using multiple baking sheets. NOTE: You'll find that after rolling out the disk, the bottom of it will be sticky whereas the top will be smooth. By flipping it upside down (sticky side up), it will be a lot easier for you to seal the seams in the next step!

  6. Fill and Shape. Add 1-2 tablespoons of cheese mixture to the center of the dough circle. Pich the dough disk (on opposite ends) in a way to form a diamond or boat shape and create a pocket to hold the cheese mixture in place. You will need to really pinch the sides well to ensure they remain closed when baked. (Take a look at the photos above).

  7. Egg wash. Brush the edge of the dough with a beaten egg and sprinkle some sesame seeds.

  8. Bake. Bake in a preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on your oven, you may need to adjust the time and or temperature to avoid burning. Serve warm.

Course🍤Appetizer

Diets🥕Vegetarian...

CategorySavory Hand Pies

CuisineLevantine

Occasions🎊Party🍿Snack

Season🔁Year-round

DifficultyMedium ⏰ 45m

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