Crispy Spinach and Cheese Filled Dough

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by washing and chopping the spinach into small pieces. In a large pan, sauté the minced garlic in a bit of olive oil over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until the spinach wilts and any excess moisture evaporates, about 3-4 minutes. Let it cool slightly.

Once cooled, transfer the spinach and garlic mixture to a bowl and stir in the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined. The filling should be creamy, with a nice balance of cheese and spinach. Set the mixture aside to prepare the dough.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the olive oil and water, and stir to form a dough. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour.

Once the dough is ready, cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes to relax and make rolling easier.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has rested, divide it into small portions (about 8-10 pieces) and roll each portion into a ball. Roll out each ball into a small circle, about 4-5 inches in diameter. You can use a rolling pin or your hands to flatten the dough.

Step 4: Fill the Dough

Place a generous spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling might spill out during cooking. Gently fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon or crescent shape. Press the edges of the dough together firmly to seal the filling inside, using your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges.

Step 5: Fry the Filled Dough

In a large frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, about ½ inch deep. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the filled dough parcels into the pan. Fry the dough for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Make sure to turn them carefully to avoid breaking the dough and spilling the filling.

Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the dough from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

These Crispy Spinach and Cheese Filled Dough parcels are best enjoyed warm, when they’re crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Serve them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce like marinara, a tangy yogurt dip, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon. They also make a perfect addition to a meal or a snack for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love Crispy Spinach and Cheese Filled Dough:

• Crispy and creamy: The contrast between the crispy dough and the creamy spinach and cheese filling makes each bite irresistible. The outside crunch and the rich, cheesy interior create the perfect combination of textures.
• Flavor-packed: The sautéed spinach adds a lovely earthy flavor, while the garlic and nutmeg give the filling an aromatic depth. The cheeses bring a rich, creamy quality that complements the spinach beautifully.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the filling to your taste. Use different types of cheese, like feta or goat cheese, or add other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even ground meat for a more substantial meal.
• Quick and easy: Although they’re fried, these parcels come together relatively quickly, making them a great option for a weeknight dinner, party snack, or appetizer.
• Satisfying and hearty: These cheesy-filled dough parcels are filling enough to serve as a main dish or a substantial side, making them a great option for lunch or dinner.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Spinach and Cheese Filled Dough:

• Seal the dough well: To prevent the filling from leaking out during frying, ensure that the edges of the dough are tightly sealed. Crimping with a fork or pressing the edges with your fingers can help create a secure seal.
• Test the oil temperature: To ensure your dough cooks evenly, test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into the pan. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. If the oil is too hot, the dough may burn on the outside before the filling has a chance to cook.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the filling and dough ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and fry the dough just before serving.
• Baking alternative: If you prefer to avoid frying, you can bake the dough parcels in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Brush them with a little olive oil before baking for a crispy texture.

A Savory, Crispy Delight

Crispy Spinach and Cheese Filled Dough is a delightful, flavor-packed snack that will impress your friends and family. The combination of spinach, cheese, and crispy dough makes for a delicious bite that’s hard to resist. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a snack, or a main dish, these crispy, cheesy parcels are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or meal.