Try this Lebanese spinach fatayer recipe
Lebanese spinach fatayer is a popular Middle Eastern pastry, cherished for its savory filling and soft, doughy exterior. Originating from Lebanon, this dish has become a staple in many Middle Eastern cuisines. It's traditionally vegetarian and eggless, making it a perfect option for those following similar dietary restrictions. The combination of spinach, onions, and sumac offers a tangy and flavorful experience. Let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare Lebanese spinach fatayer, you will need two cups of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of instant yeast, one teaspoon of sugar, and one-half teaspoon of salt for the dough. For the filling, arrange for three cups of fresh spinach (chopped), one large onion (finely diced), two tablespoons of olive oil, one tablespoon of sumac, one-half teaspoon of salt, and one-quarter teaspoon of black pepper.
Prepare the dough
Begin by mixing two cups of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon instant yeast, and one teaspoon sugar, plus one-half teaspoon salt in a bowl. Gradually add warm water to form soft dough. Knead on a floured surface until smooth, about 10 minutes. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about an hour.
Make the filling
While the dough is rising, prepare your filling. In another bowl, mix three cups of chopped fresh spinach with one finely diced large onion. Add two tablespoons of olive oil to help bind everything together along with one tablespoon sumac for that authentic tangy flavor. Season with one-half teaspoon salt and one-quarter teaspoon black pepper to taste.
Shape your fatayers
After the dough doubles in size, punch it down gently and divide into small, golf ball-sized balls. On a floured surface, roll each ball into a circle about four inches in diameter. Don't worry if they're not perfect circles. Add filling to each, leaving room at the edges. Then, bring the edges together to form triangles and pinch firmly to seal.
Bake your fatayers
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange the fatayers on parchment-lined baking sheets, spaced apart to allow for expansion. Brush the tops with olive oil for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Serve hot or at room temperature and enjoy the Lebanese flavors that have traveled across cultures, maintaining their essence in your kitchen.
