Flaouna - Traditional Cypriot Cheese Pastries

Ingredients

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 250ml (1 cup) warm milk 250ml (1 cup) warm milk
• 60ml (1/4 cup) olive oil 60ml (1/4 cup) olive oil
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 300g (10.5 oz) halloumi cheese, grated 300g (10.5 oz) halloumi cheese, grated
• 200g (7 oz) ricotta cheese 200g (7 oz) ricotta cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon ground mahleb 1/4 teaspoon ground mahleb
• 1/4 teaspoon ground mastic 1/4 teaspoon ground mastic
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons raisins 2 tablespoons raisins
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• For garnish: For garnish:
• Sesame seeds Sesame seeds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 26g, 3g
• Protein: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. 3.
   Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   In a separate bowl, combine the grated halloumi cheese, ricotta cheese, beaten eggs, mahleb, mastic, black pepper, fresh mint, and raisins. Mix well to form a homogeneous filling.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small portions. Roll out each portion into a circle or oval shape, about 15cm (6 inches) in diameter.
8. 8.
   Place a generous amount of the cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges of the dough towards the center, leaving the filling partially exposed.
9. 9.
   Brush the exposed dough with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
10. 10.
    Transfer the flaouna pastries to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Flaouna is traditionally enjoyed at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Halloumi cheese — Make sure to grate the halloumi cheese before using it in the filling. This will ensure an even distribution of flavors throughout the flaouna.
• Mahleb and mastic — These unique spices are essential for the authentic flavor of flaouna. If you can't find them in your local stores, consider purchasing them online or visiting specialty spice shops.
• Fresh mint — Opt for fresh mint leaves rather than dried mint for a vibrant and aromatic taste in the filling.
• Puff pastry alternative — If you prefer a flakier texture, you can substitute the homemade dough with store-bought puff pastry sheets. Thaw the pastry according to the package instructions and proceed with the filling and baking steps.

Tips & Tricks

• For a touch of sweetness, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the filling mixture.
• If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, you can increase the amount of halloumi cheese in the filling.
• Serve flaouna with a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side for a creamy and tangy contrast.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
• Flaouna can be enjoyed as a breakfast pastry, snack, or as part of a festive Easter meal.

Serving advice

Serve flaouna at room temperature to fully appreciate the flavors and textures. Accompany it with a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives for a complete Cypriot experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the flaouna on a platter, showcasing their golden-brown crust and sesame seed topping. Sprinkle some fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color. Serve on traditional Cypriot pottery or rustic wooden boards to enhance the cultural presentation.