Saudi Fatayer: Culinary Journey through Heart of Arabian Flavors
Traditional Saudi Pastries: Step-by-Step Guide to Homemade Fatayer
Saudi Fatayer, a delightful type of Middle Eastern pie, is widely cherished across the Arabian Peninsula for its versatility and savory fillings. These small triangular pastries are a staple in Saudi cuisine. They are often filled with a variety of ingredients such as spinach, cheese, or ground meat. This makes them a perfect choice for any meal or as a snack.
The process of making Fatayer involves preparing the dough, choosing a filling, shaping the pastries, and then baking them to golden perfection. This article will guide you through making your own Saudi Fatayer, focusing on a popular spinach filling.
Recipe of Saudi Fatayer:
Ingredients
For the Dough:
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon instant yeast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup warm water (you may need a bit, depending on the dough)
For the Spinach Filling:
– 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
-2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses (optional for a sweet and sour flavor)
– 1/4 teaspoon sumac (optional for added tanginess)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
– First, in a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
– Then, add the olive oil and mix it into the flour using your fingertips.
– Gradually add the warm water and knead until the dough comes together into a smooth and elastic ball. You might need to adjust the amount of water slightly.
– After that, cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
2. Make the Spinach Filling:
– Next, in a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, onion, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and sumac if using. Then, mix well to ensure the spinach is well coated with the seasoning. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes; this process helps the spinach to wilt and blend flavors.
– After resting, squeeze out any excess liquid from the spinach mixture to avoid a soggy filling.
3. Preheat the Oven:
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
4. Shape the Fatayer:
– Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
– Following this, on a lightly floured surface, roll out each ball into a circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
– After that, place a tablespoon of the spinach filling in the center of each circle.
– Then, to shape the Fatayer, bring three sides of the dough circle together over the filling and pinch the edges together to form a triangle. Ensure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
– Next, place the shaped Fatayer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
5. Bake the Fatayer:
– Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the Fatayer is golden brown on top.
– Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
6. Serve:
– Finally, serve your Saudi Fatayer warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of yogurt for dipping.
Related Topics:
Maamoul: Traditional Saudi Arabian Cookie
How to Make Saudi Gahwa (Coffee)
Samboosa: Traditional Delicacy in Saudi Cuisine