Healthy Mezze
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Freshly baked Lebanese cheese fatayer arranged on a serving board with parsley and black nigella seeds.
🥗 MezzeMedium35 mins min👥 12 Servings

Cheese Fatayer

Soft whole wheat pastries filled with a delicious blend of Akkawi cheese, reduced-fat mozzarella, fresh parsley, and nigella seeds. A healthier version of a classic Lebanese bakery favorite.

Prep Time

35 mins min

🔥

Cook Time

22 mins min

Total Time

57 min

🍽

Servings

12

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 2¼ tsp instant yeast
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup Akkawi cheese, soaked and crumbled
  • 1 cup reduced-fat mozzarella, shredded
  • 2 tbsp low-fat feta cheese, crumbled
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp nigella seeds
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 1 egg, lightly beaten (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine the flours, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.

  2. 2

    Add the warm water and olive oil and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.

  3. 3

    Cover and allow the dough to rise for about 1 hour.

  4. 4

    Meanwhile, mix the Akkawi cheese, mozzarella, feta, parsley, oregano, and nigella seeds.

  5. 5

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

  6. 6

    Divide the dough into 12 equal balls.

  7. 7

    Roll each into a 5-inch (13 cm) circle.

  8. 8

    Place about 2 tablespoons of cheese filling in the center.

  9. 9

    Fold and pinch the edges together to form the traditional triangular fatayer shape.

  10. 10

    Arrange on a parchment-lined baking tray.

  11. 11

    Brush lightly with beaten egg.

  12. 12

    Bake for 20–22 minutes until golden brown.

  13. 13

    Serve warm or at room temperature.

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