Fatayer, a popular Lebanese recipe, is a delicious and savory pastry that is enjoyed all over the world. This traditional dish is a staple in Lebanese cuisine, and its crispy, flaky exterior paired with a flavorful filling makes it a favorite among many. While there are many variations of fatayer, the most common one is made with spinach and feta cheese. Let's take a closer look at this delicious Lebanese treat and learn how to make it at home.
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef Chuck, Chopped Parsley, Sun Dried Tomatoes
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Spinach Fatayer (Lebanese spinach pie)
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Dry Yeast, Brown Sugar, Salt, Oil, Luke
Fatayer, or savory pies, are a staple in Lebanese cuisine. This spinach fatayer is made with a flaky dough and a filling of spinach, onion, and spices. Serve it as an appetizer or a side dish for a delicious and vegetarian-friendly addition to your meal.
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Lebanese Cheese Fatayer
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This cheese fatayer is another delicious version of the traditional savory pie. Made with a blend of akawi and mozzarella cheese, this dish is perfect for cheese lovers. Serve it warm for a gooey and satisfying meal.
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Lebanese Savory Lamb Fatayer
Main Ingredients: Dough, Flour, Warm Water, Rapid Rise Yeast, Sugar
For a twist on the classic Lebanese fatayer, try this savory lamb version. The combination of ground lamb, za'atar, and sumac creates a delicious and unique flavor that will have you coming back for more. Serve it as a main dish or as an appetizer for a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine.
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Fatayer bi Sabanekh (Lebanese Spinach Turnovers)
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Fatayer bi Sabanekh (Vegan Lebanese Spinach Pie)
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Cheese Fatayer with fatayer dough
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Lebanese Beef Fatayer | A Middle Eastern meat pie
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How to Make Lebanese Fatayer With Spinach and Labneh...
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Spinach Fatayer
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Chicken Fatayer-How to make fatayer
Main Ingredients: Flour, Instant Yeast, Sugar, Salt, Whole Milk, Olive
This chicken fatayer recipe is a must-try for any chicken lover. The combination of ground chicken, onion, and spices creates a flavorful and satisfying filling that is encased in a flaky and buttery dough. Serve it warm for a traditional and delicious Lebanese meal.
The History of Fatayer
The Origins
The history of fatayer can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was a popular street food. Over time, it has become a staple in Lebanese cuisine and is now enjoyed by people all over the world. The word "fatayer" is derived from the Arabic word "fatira," which means "to split." This refers to the way the dough is folded over the filling, giving the pastry its distinct triangular shape.
The Evolution
As with many traditional dishes, fatayer has evolved and adapted over time. While the classic filling of spinach and feta cheese remains the most popular, there are now many variations available, including meat, cheese, and even sweet fillings. Each region in Lebanon has its own unique twist on the recipe, making it a diverse and versatile dish.
The Ingredients
The Dough
The key to a perfect fatayer is the dough. It should be thin, yet sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart. The dough is typically made with flour, water, yeast, and a pinch of salt. Some recipes also call for the addition of olive oil or butter, which adds a rich and flaky texture to the pastry.
The Filling
The most common filling for fatayer is a combination of spinach and feta cheese. The spinach is sautéed with onions and garlic, then mixed with crumbled feta cheese and a blend of spices, including sumac and allspice. This mixture is then placed in the center of the dough and folded over to create the iconic triangular shape.
The Recipe
Now that you know a bit about the history and ingredients of fatayer, it's time to make your own! The process may seem daunting, but with a little practice, you'll be whipping up these delicious pastries in no time. Check out our easyfatayer recipe below.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp instant yeast
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup warm water
1 lb fresh spinach
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tsp sumac
1/2 tsp allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, and salt. Slowly add in the olive oil and warm water, and mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, then place it back in the bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rest for 1 hour.
In a pan, sauté the spinach, onions, and garlic until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cooled spinach mixture, feta cheese, sumac, allspice, salt, and pepper.
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into circles. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle, then fold the dough over to create a triangle. Pinch the edges closed.
Place the fatayer on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
Enjoy your homemade fatayer hot out of the oven!
In Conclusion
Fatayer is a delicious and versatile Lebanese recipe that has stood the test of time. Its history and evolution make it a fascinating dish to explore, and its simple yet flavorful ingredients make it a popular choice for home cooks. So why not give it a try and add a taste of Lebanon to your next meal?
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