Nokul - Turkish Cheese Pastry

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120g) plain yogurt 1/2 cup (120g) plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (150g) feta cheese, crumbled 1 cup (150g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup (120g) ricotta cheese 1/2 cup (120g) ricotta cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds, for sprinkling Sesame seeds, for sprinkling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 20g (12g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 26g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Add the yogurt to the mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the feta cheese, ricotta cheese, parsley, and dill until well combined.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
6. 6.
   Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. 7.
   Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log shape.
8. 8.
   Cut the log into 1-inch thick slices and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each slice.
9. 9.
   Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
10. 10.
    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and cooked through.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Feta cheese — Make sure to crumble the feta cheese finely for a smooth filling.
• Ricotta cheese — If you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with cream cheese.
• Fresh herbs — Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. If you don't have parsley or dill, you can experiment with other herbs like mint or basil.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top of the pastries before baking.
• Serve the Nokul warm for the best taste and texture.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the filling according to your taste preferences.
• If you prefer a sweeter version, you can add a touch of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of the pastries after baking.
• Nokul pairs well with a cup of Turkish tea or a refreshing glass of Ayran (a traditional Turkish yogurt drink).

Serving advice

Serve the Nokul as a delightful breakfast pastry or as an appetizer for gatherings. They are best enjoyed warm and can be served on their own or with a side of olives and sliced tomatoes.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Nokul on a platter, showcasing their beautiful twisted shape. Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for an added touch of freshness. Serve them on a colorful tablecloth or a traditional Turkish ceramic plate to enhance the presentation.