Albanian Spinach Pies

Ingredients

In the Albanian adaptation of Boyoz, the traditional Turkish dish, we replace the original dough with a flaky pastry crust. Additionally, we incorporate feta cheese into the filling to add a tangy and creamy element. The use of dill and parsley as aromatic herbs gives the Albanian Spinach Pies a distinct flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Boyoz, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
• 2 cups (200g) fresh spinach, chopped 2 cups (200g) fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup (150g) feta cheese, crumbled 1 cup (150g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh dill, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 11g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, dill, parsley, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut out circles or squares, approximately 4 inches in diameter.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the spinach and feta filling onto one half of each dough piece. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to create a decorative edge.
7. 7.
   Transfer the pies to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg wash.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Feta cheese — Make sure to crumble the feta cheese into small pieces for even distribution throughout the filling.
• Fresh herbs — Use fresh dill and parsley for the best flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with dried herbs, but reduce the quantity by half.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more flavorful filling, sauté the spinach briefly with some olive oil and garlic before mixing it with the other ingredients.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the pies. Mint, oregano, or thyme can be great additions.
• Serve the pies warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
• These pies can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can use phyllo dough instead of the flaky pastry crust.

Serving advice

Albanian Spinach Pies are best served warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or appetizer, or paired with a fresh salad for a light meal. Serve them on a platter with a side of yogurt or tzatziki sauce for dipping.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Albanian Spinach Pies on a serving platter, making sure to display their golden brown crusts. Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or parsley for an added touch of freshness. Serve them alongside a colorful salad to create an appealing presentation.