Nut-Stuffed Semolina Pastries, Cyprus Style

May 08, 2023May 8, 20230 1

Nut-Stuffed Semolina Pastries

by The Chefin Pastry

Prep

30 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

50 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

253

Sugar

10g

Fat

16g

Nut-Stuffed Semolina Pastries, Cyprus Style, are a popular traditional snack in the eastern Mediterranean. These bite-sized pastries have a distinct taste profile that combines semolina with a warm cinnamon and nut-stuffed filling. While they might seem daunting to first-time pastry makers, they are relatively easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients. The pastries can be made ahead of time and stored, making them a great snack option for students, busy professionals or anyone with a sweet tooth. They can also be paired with a nice cup of tea or coffee for a quick afternoon snack. Try out this delicious recipe and enjoy the sweet and nutty flavors of this Mediterranean delight.

Instructions

1.	Preheat oven to 350°F
2.	Melt the butter in a large bowl in the microwave and then add the semolina, orange flower water and salt. Mix the ingredients until it becomes crumbly.
3.	Gradually add the warm water in the bowl, continuing to mix until the dough forms.
4.	In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pistachio, sugar and cinnamon.
5.	Grab about a tablespoon's worth of dough and form it into a ball.
6.	Flatten the dough into your palm and add a teaspoon of pistachio mixture in the center.
7.	Fold the dough around the filling, shaping it into a ball again.
8.	Place the ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat the same steps for the rest of the dough and filling.
9.	Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.

PROS

These nut-filled pastries are a unique and delicious treat that is perfect as a snack or a sweet dessert.

Their delicate and crunchy texture combined with the sweetness of the filling and the nutty flavor of the pistachios make the pastries an irresistible indulgence.

CONS

These pastries contain a good amount of butter and sugar, which makes them high in calories and fat.

Therefore, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Though not the healthiest food item, semolina has a low glycemic index, which means that it is digested slowly and does not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.
Pistachios are a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, as well as vitamin B6, thiamin, phosphorus, and copper. They have also been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and improving gut health.

	1/4 lb unsalted butter
	1 1/4 cups fine semolina
	2 teaspoons orange flower water
	1/4 teaspoon salt
	3 tablespoons warm water , more if needed
	1 cup unsalted shelled pistachio , chopped
	4 1/2 tablespoons sugar
	1 tablespoon cinnamon