Sylheti Quesito Delight

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the traditional Puerto Rican Quesito with Sylheti flavors. Instead of using the original Puerto Rican cheese, we substitute it with crumbled paneer, a popular cheese in Sylheti cuisine. Additionally, we incorporate Sylheti spices such as cumin and coriander to enhance the flavor profile. These modifications result in a unique fusion dish that combines the best of both cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Quesito, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 cup (200g) crumbled paneer 1 cup (200g) crumbled paneer
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 green chili, finely chopped 1 green chili, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• Oil, for brushing Oil, for brushing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix the crumbled paneer, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, green chili, and chopped cilantro. Set aside.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin circle.
5. 5.
   Place a spoonful of the paneer mixture onto one half of the dough circle. Fold the other half over the filling and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
6. 6.
   Brush the pastries with oil and place them on a baking sheet.
7. 7.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastries turn golden brown.
8. 8.
   Serve warm and enjoy the delightful Sylheti Quesito Delight!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Paneer — Ensure the paneer is crumbled finely to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add more green chilies to the filling.
• Serve the Sylheti Quesito Delight with a side of mint chutney for an extra burst of flavor.
• Experiment with different spices like garam masala or chili powder to customize the flavor according to your preference.
• If you prefer a softer texture, brush the pastries with melted butter instead of oil before baking.
• These pastries can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the warm Sylheti Quesito Delight as a snack or appetizer. It pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the pastries on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh and vibrant presentation.