Fatayer

 

Fatayer are savory Middle Eastern pastries, usually filled with spinach, meat, or cheese, and shaped like triangles or half-moons. They’re popular as snacks, appetizers, or part of a mezze spread. Here’s a practical guide:

1. Ingredients for the Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup warm water

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 tablespoon dry yeast

2. Popular Fillings

  1. Spinach (Sabanekh)

    • Chopped spinach, onions, olive oil, sumac, salt, pepper, optional pine nuts.

  2. Minced Meat

    • Ground beef or lamb, sautéed with onions, pine nuts, salt, pepper, and spices (cinnamon, allspice).

  3. Cheese

    • Feta, akkawi, or ricotta mixed with parsley and a little salt.

3. Making Fatayer

  1. Prepare the Dough

    • Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit 5–10 minutes.

    • Mix with flour, olive oil, and salt. Knead until smooth.

    • Cover and let rise 1 hour until doubled in size.

  2. Prepare the Filling

    • Cook meat or sauté spinach with spices.

    • Let the filling cool slightly before using.

  3. Shape the Fatayer

    • Divide dough into small balls. Roll into circles (about 4–5 inches).

    • Place filling in the center.

    • Fold edges into a triangle (or half-moon) and seal tightly.

  4. Bake

    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

    • Place pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

    • Brush with olive oil or egg wash for a golden finish.

    • Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Tips

  • Don’t overfill; it makes sealing difficult.

  • You can freeze unbaked fatayer for later baking.

  • Serve warm with yogurt or tahini sauce.

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