Ingredients

1 cup warm water
6 -9 g dried yeast ( one packet )
1 dash salt
1/4 cup olive oil
3 -4 cups flour
600 g lamb , chunks boiled until tender
350 g mizithra cheese ( substitute ricotta )
20 leaves mint , finely chopped
1 dash cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon oregano ( optional )
1/4 cup meat juice ( optional , see note at end of recipe )
salt , pepper to taste
1 egg yolk , beaten , for brushing the pastry
2 tablespoons sesame seeds ( or a mixture of sesame and black cumin seeds )
Cretan Meat Pie (Kreatotourta) is a traditional dish from the island of Crete in Greece. The pie is usually served at special occasions, such as weddings and festivals. It is a hearty dish that is sure to satisfy your hunger. The pie is made with a dough that is filled with chunks of boiled lamb and mizithra cheese, a Greek cheese similar to ricotta. The filling is flavored with cinnamon and mint, which gives the dish a unique and delicious taste.

Instructions

1.Dissolve the yeast in the warm water with a dash of salt.
2.Combine the flour and olive oil in a separate bowl. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
3.Knead the dough for 5-10 min and let it rise for 1 hour.
4.In a separate bowl, combine the boiled lamb, mizithra cheese, chopped mint, cinnamon, oregano, and meat juice (optional).
5.Preheat the oven to 180°C.
6.Divide the dough in half and roll out one half. Place it in a lightly oiled baking dish.
7.Add the lamb and cheese mixture and spread it evenly. Roll out the second half of the dough and cover the lamb mixture.
8.Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg yolk and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
9.Bake for 40-45 min or until golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

PROS

Cretan Meat Pie (Kreatotourta) is a delicious savory pie that is great for lunch or dinner.
The combination of lamb and mizithra cheese makes for a unique and flavorful dish.

The pie can be made ahead of time and reheated for an easy meal.

CONS

Cretan Meat Pie (Kreatotourta) can be time-consuming to make, especially if you make your own dough.
The dough can also be difficult to roll out and may require some practice.

This dish is not vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Cretan Meat Pie (Kreatotourta) is a good source of protein from the lamb and cheese. Mizithra cheese is also low in fat and calories compared to other cheeses.
The addition of mint and cinnamon can aid in digestion and provide antioxidant benefits.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.