Fata'ir

Fata'ir Recipe: A Delicious Omani Dish to Try at Home

Region / culture: Oman | Preparation time: 1.5 hour | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Fata'ir is a popular Middle Eastern pastry that is typically filled with a savory mixture of meat, chicken, or vegetables. These delicious pastries are perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.

History

Fata'ir has been enjoyed in the Middle East for centuries, with variations of the recipe found in different countries across the region. The name "fata'ir" translates to "pastries" in Arabic, and these tasty treats are often served as appetizers or as part of a larger meal.

Ingredients

3 cups of white flour
1 cup of prepared milk
0.5 cup of oil
1 tbsp of yeast
1 tsp of salt
1 tbsp of sugar

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the ingredients.
Cover and let it sit for at least 1.5 hours.
Prepare a filling such as meat, chicken, or vegetable filling as in the samboosa recipe.
Take a walnut-sized ball of dough and pinch it off.
Flatten the dough into a small circle using your hands.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of the circle.
Seal the circle by closing it up, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed.
Pinch the edges together to secure the filling.
Place the prepared dough on a greased tray and continue making "fata'ir" with the remaining dough.
Deep fry the fata'ir in hot oil until they turn golden brown on all sides.
Drain the fried fata'ir on kitchen paper to remove excess oil.
Serve the fata'ir warm.

Variations

Try filling the fata'ir with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella.
Add herbs and spices to the filling mixture for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to let the dough rest for at least 1.5 hours to allow it to rise and become light and fluffy.

- Be sure to seal the fata'ir well to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.

- Use a deep fryer or a deep pan with plenty of oil to ensure that the fata'ir cook evenly and become crispy on the outside.

Serving Suggestions

Fata'ir can be served as an appetizer with a side of tahini sauce or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Deep fry the fata'ir in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use whole wheat flour instead of white flour for a healthier option.

- Substitute the milk with water or a plant-based milk alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time and assemble the fata'ir just before frying.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the fata'ir on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Pairing Recommendations

Fata'ir pairs well with a refreshing mint tea or a glass of yogurt drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover fata'ir in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of fata'ir contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of fata'ir contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of fata'ir contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of fata'ir contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Fata'ir is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Fata'ir may contain wheat and dairy allergens.

Summary

Fata'ir is a delicious pastry that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, making it a satisfying and indulgent treat.

Summary

Fata'ir is a delicious and versatile pastry that can be filled with a variety of savory ingredients. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these crispy pastries are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. I was visiting a small village in Lebanon, nestled in the beautiful mountains, where I had the pleasure of meeting a kind old woman named Fatima. She welcomed me into her humble home, and as soon as I stepped inside, I was enveloped in the warm, comforting aroma of spices and herbs.

Fatima was a master in the kitchen, her hands moving with precision and grace as she prepared a traditional Lebanese dish called Fata'ir. These delicious savory pastries were filled with a mixture of spinach, onions, and sumac, wrapped in a delicate dough and baked to golden perfection.

As I watched Fatima work her culinary magic, I knew I had to learn the secret to making these delectable treats. I asked her if she would be willing to teach me, and with a twinkle in her eye, she agreed.

Over the next few days, I spent hours in Fatima's kitchen, absorbing every detail of the Fata'ir recipe. She taught me how to make the dough from scratch, kneading it until it was soft and elastic. She showed me how to sauté the spinach and onions just right, adding the perfect amount of sumac for that distinctive tangy flavor.

But it wasn't just the technical aspects of the recipe that Fatima imparted to me. She shared stories of her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe to her many years ago. She spoke of the love and care that went into every batch of Fata'ir, how each one was a labor of love for her family and friends.

As I worked alongside Fatima, I felt a deep connection to the generations of women who had come before us, passing down their culinary traditions with each delicious dish. I was filled with gratitude for the opportunity to learn from such a wise and talented cook, and I knew that I would cherish this recipe for years to come.

After several days of practice and guidance from Fatima, I finally felt confident enough to try making Fata'ir on my own. As I rolled out the dough, filled it with the savory spinach mixture, and carefully sealed each pastry, I thought of Fatima and her gentle guidance.

When the Fata'ir emerged from the oven, golden and fragrant, I knew that I had succeeded. The pastries were perfectly flaky and flavorful, just like the ones Fatima had made. I couldn't wait to share them with my family and friends, passing on the tradition that had been entrusted to me.

From that day forward, Fata'ir became a beloved staple in my own kitchen. I made them for special occasions and everyday meals, delighting in the memories of my time with Fatima and the shared love of cooking that had brought us together.

As I grew older, I continued to gather recipes from various places and people, adding them to my repertoire of culinary delights. But the recipe for Fata'ir would always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bonds that can be forged through food and the wisdom that can be passed down through generations.

And so, whenever I make Fata'ir now, I think of Fatima and her warm smile, grateful for the gift of her friendship and the delicious recipe that she shared with me. Cooking, for me, has always been about more than just food – it's a way to connect with others, to honor traditions, and to create lasting memories. And for that, I will always be thankful.