Homemade Turkish Cheese Rolls

Ingredients

• 10 sheets of phyllo pastry 10 sheets of phyllo pastry
• 200g (7oz) feta cheese, crumbled 200g (7oz) feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped (optional) 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 15g (9g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 20g (1g sugars)
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, parsley, mint (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean surface and brush it lightly with olive oil.
4. 4.
   Place another sheet of phyllo pastry on top and brush it with olive oil as well. Repeat this process until you have 5 layers of phyllo pastry.
5. 5.
   Cut the layered phyllo pastry into long strips, approximately 5cm (2 inches) wide.
6. 6.
   Take a strip of phyllo pastry and place a spoonful of the cheese mixture at one end. Fold the sides of the pastry over the filling and roll it tightly, resembling a cigar shape.
7. 7.
   Repeat the process with the remaining strips of phyllo pastry and cheese mixture.
8. 8.
   Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam side down.
9. 9.
   Brush the rolls with beaten egg for a golden finish.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crispy.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Phyllo pastry — Make sure to keep the phyllo pastry sheets covered with a damp cloth while working with them to prevent them from drying out.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese or grated Parmesan to the filling mixture.
• For a variation, you can add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the cheese filling for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you don't have phyllo pastry, you can use puff pastry as a substitute, although the texture will be slightly different.
• Serve the Turkish Cheese Rolls with a side of tangy yogurt dip or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.
• These rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but you can also store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat them in the oven before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Turkish Cheese Rolls as an appetizer or snack. They are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a delicious addition to a mezze platter. Pair them with a refreshing salad or enjoy them on their own.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Turkish Cheese Rolls on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley or mint leaves for an attractive presentation. Serve them upright, resembling cigars, to showcase their unique shape.