These spinach and onion pastries, reminiscent of the beloved börek, are a deliciously crispy and flaky snack or meal. The layers of dough are brushed with melted butter and oil, providing a rich, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the flavorful spinach and onion filling. Perfectly seasoned with black pepper, red pepper, and salt, these pastries are satisfying yet light and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with yogurt, salad, or soup. Whether you’re preparing them for a casual snack or a hearty meal, these pastries are bound to impress with their savory filling and irresistible crunch.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 12 pastries
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 teaspoon salt (6 g)
- 1.5 glasses of water (300 ml)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (455 g), adjust as needed
- 1 tablespoon oil (for greasing)
- 100 g melted butter
- 1/2 glass oil (100 ml)
For the Filling:
- 350 g chopped spinach
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the salt and water. Gradually add flour while mixing to form a medium-soft dough. Continue adding flour until the dough is no longer sticky and can be handled easily.
- Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Grease the dough with 1 tablespoon of oil, cover it, and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Portion and Rest the Dough: 4. Divide the dough into 12 equal parts. Roll each part into a ball. 5. Cover the dough balls with a cloth and let them rest for another 10 minutes to relax.
Prepare the Filling: 6. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped spinach, onion, salt, black pepper, and red pepper. Mix gently, ensuring the spinach doesn’t release too much water.
Roll and Assemble the Pastries: 7. Roll out each dough ball into a circle, approximately the size of a dessert plate. 8. Grease a tray with oil and arrange the rolled dough on it. Brush each layer with the melted butter and oil mixture. 9. Cover the tray and let it rest for 20-25 minutes to relax and prepare for the rolling process. 10. Roll out each dough piece as thinly as possible, gently pulling and stretching the dough. 11. Place a portion of the spinach filling in the center of each dough sheet, then fold and wrap the dough around the filling as demonstrated.
Bake the Pastries: 12. Preheat the oven to 185°C (365°F). 13. Brush the pastries with the remaining oil and melted butter mixture, and place them on a greased baking tray. 14. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and crispy.
Serve: 15. Once baked, allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. They can be served warm with a dollop of plain yogurt or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
- With Plain Yogurt or Tzatziki: The creamy and tangy yogurt complements the rich and crispy pastries beautifully.
- With a Fresh Salad: A simple cucumber, tomato, and onion salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pastry.
- With Lentil Soup: These pastries make a great accompaniment to a hearty bowl of lentil soup for a filling and wholesome meal.
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or dill can be sprinkled on top for added flavor and a fresh, vibrant touch.
- With Tea: Serve these pastries with a hot cup of tea for a cozy and comforting snack.
Cooking Tips
- Use High-Quality Flour: To ensure the dough is easy to work with and produces the best results, opt for high-quality all-purpose flour.
- Don’t Overfill the Pastries: Be careful not to overstuff the pastries, as this can cause them to tear while baking.
- Rest the Dough Properly: Allowing the dough to rest helps it become more elastic and easier to roll and stretch.
- Generously Brush with Butter and Oil: For maximum flakiness, be sure to generously brush each layer of dough with the butter and oil mixture.
- Storing Leftovers: Leftover pastries can be stored in the fridge and reheated in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach: Rich in iron, vitamins (especially vitamin K), and fiber, spinach supports overall health, particularly bone health and digestion.
- Onions: Provide antioxidants, including quercetin, which helps reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
- Dough: The dough provides carbohydrates for energy and is an excellent base for pairing with nutrient-dense fillings like spinach.
Dietary Information
- Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or oil.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These spinach and onion pastries are a perfect balance of flaky, buttery crust and savory filling. The rich, crispy pastry combined with the flavorful spinach and onion filling creates a delicious bite that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, they are a versatile dish that everyone will enjoy. The combination of simplicity and flavor makes these pastries a wonderful addition to your recipe collection.
Conclusion
Spinach and onion pastries are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. The crisp, golden pastry, combined with the savory spinach filling, makes for a delicious treat that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other dishes. Whether you make them for a family meal, a party, or a snack, these pastries are sure to impress. Easy to make, versatile, and full of flavor, they are a great addition to your cooking repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and roll the dough ahead of time, then refrigerate until ready to bake. -
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the filling. -
Can I make these pastries without oil or butter?
While the oil and butter help create a flaky crust, you can try substituting with a dairy-free butter or olive oil for a healthier option. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore the crispiness. -
Can I freeze the pastries?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pastries. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. -
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Yes, you can add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition. -
How can I make these pastries spicier?
Add finely chopped chili peppers or chili flakes to the filling to give it a spicy kick. -
Can I use store-bought puff pastry instead of homemade dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought puff pastry for convenience, but the homemade dough offers a more authentic and fresh flavor. -
Can I make these pastries vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetables in place of the spinach filling or add other plant-based ingredients to make them vegetarian-friendly. -
Can I bake these in a muffin tin?
Yes, you can shape the dough into smaller portions and bake them in a muffin tin for individual servings. Adjust the baking time accordingly.