Goan Cheese Rolls

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional sweet cheese filling of Halawet el-jeben is replaced with a savory mixture of spiced meat, onions, and herbs. Additionally, the cooking technique is modified to frying instead of baking, which gives the rolls a crispy texture. We alse have the original recipe for Halawet el-jeben, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup (150g) minced meat (beef or pork) 1 cup (150g) minced meat (beef or pork)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, warm water, salt, and vegetable oil. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced meat and cook until browned. Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the onions are soft and the spices are fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. 3.
   Divide the dough into small balls. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
4. 4.
   Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto one half of the dough circle. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges to seal.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat. Fry the rolls until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel.
6. 6.
   Serve the Goan Cheese Rolls hot as an appetizer or snack.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Minced meat — Ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
• Ginger paste — If fresh ginger is not available, you can use ginger powder as a substitute.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add chopped green chilies to the meat mixture.
• Serve the Goan Cheese Rolls with a side of tangy tamarind chutney for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the meat with mashed potatoes or paneer (Indian cottage cheese).
• Experiment with different fillings such as shrimp, crab, or vegetables to create your own variations.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the rolls to achieve a crispy texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Goan Cheese Rolls as an appetizer or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of chutney or ketchup.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Goan Cheese Rolls on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve them hot to showcase their crispy exterior.