Ingredients

450 g plain flour
1 teaspoon salt
240 ml cold water
5 ml lemon juice
50 g clarified butter
225 g margarine or 225 g butter
450 g halloumi cheese
2 eggs , beaten
1 teaspoon finely chopped parsley or 1 teaspoon mint
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
salt
Halloumi Bourekia are a traditional Cypriot pastry, made with crispy phyllo dough and a deliciously cheesy filling. Similar to a samosa or empanada, these pastries can be made in a variety of ways using different types of cheese, herbs, and spices. They are a popular snack or appetizer in Greece, Turkey, and Cyprus, and can be found in many Mediterranean-style restaurants around the world. These Halloumi Bourekia are a savory twist on the classic pastry, incorporating the tangy, salty flavor of halloumi cheese into a crispy, buttery casing. They are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed hot or cold, alone or with a side of dip or sauce.

Instructions

1.Begin by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add in the cold water and lemon juice, kneading until a smooth and firm dough is formed.
2.Divide the dough into 12 equal-sized portions and roll each into a ball. Cover with a damp towel and let rest for 15 minutes.
3.While the dough is resting, prepare the filling by grating the halloumi cheese into a mixing bowl. Add in the beaten eggs, chopped parsley or mint, black pepper, and salt, and mix well.
4.Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Melt the clarified butter and margarine or butter. Brush a baking dish with butter.
5.Roll out each dough portion with a rolling pin, creating a thin, oval-shaped dough sheet. Brush each sheet with melted butter and fold it in half. Brush again with melted butter and divide the halloumi filling among the dough sheets, folding each into a triangular shape around the filling.
6.Place the filled bourekia in the prepared baking dish and brush with any remaining melted butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
7.Serve hot or at room temperature, with a side of tzatziki or tomato sauce.

PROS

These savory pastries are a delicious fusion of Greek and Turkish cuisine, with a crispy, buttery exterior and a cheesy, flavorful filling.

They are perfect for a quick lunch or snack and can be easily packed for on-the-go meals or picnics.

CONS

Halloumi cheese is a high-sodium cheese, so these pastries should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Additionally, the use of margarine or butter in the recipe makes them high in calories and fat.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite their indulgent qualities, these pastries do provide some health benefits. Halloumi cheese is rich in calcium and protein, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.
Additionally, the parsley or mint used in the filling are both flavorful herbs that are rich in antioxidants and have been linked to supporting digestive health and reducing inflammation.

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