Flaounces

Flaounces Recipe from Cyprus: Savory Cheddar and Halloumi Bread with Mint

Region / culture: Cyprus | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Flaounces are a delicious pastry filled with a cheesy mixture that is perfect for any time of day. These flaky pastries are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Flaounces have been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. The combination of a flaky pastry crust and a cheesy filling has been a favorite among many for generations.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of strong plain flour
1 packet of easy blend yeast
1 tsp of salt
2 tsp of sugar
2 tbsp of olive oil

Filling

8 oz (227 g) of cheddar cheese
4 oz (113 g) of halloumi or mozzarella
1 tbsp of plain flour
1 tsp of baking powder
1 tbsp of crushed dried mint
4 eggs, lightly beaten

Glaze

1 beaten egg
sesame seeds

How to prepare

Dough

Sift the flour into a large bowl.
Stir in the yeast, salt, and sugar.
Add the oil and enough water to make a firm dough.
Knead for at least 5 minutes.
Put into a polythene bag and leave to rise in a warm place for an hour.

Filling

Coarsely grate the cheeses, add flour and baking powder, then gradually stir in the mint and beaten eggs until you have a stiff paste.
Preheat the oven to 230°C / gas mark 8.
Divide the dough into egg-sized pieces and roll into 4" discs.
Put a generous tablespoon of filling in the center of each disc and spread slightly.
Pull the dough up at 4 points to make a square.
Press the corners together to seal and leave to rise.

Glaze

Just before baking, brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle some sesame seeds over.
Bake for 12 – 15 minutes until the cheese filling has puffed up and the pastry is golden.
Serve warm or cold.

Variations

You can customize the filling of flaounces by adding different types of cheese, herbs, or even vegetables.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to knead the dough for at least 5 minutes to ensure a smooth and elastic texture.

- Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for an hour to ensure a light and fluffy pastry.

- Brushing the pastries with beaten egg and sprinkling sesame seeds before baking will give them a beautiful golden color and added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Flaounces can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main dish with a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect flaounces is to ensure the dough is well-kneaded and allowed to rise properly before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the cheddar cheese with any other type of cheese you prefer. You can also use different herbs or spices in the filling for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time and assemble the flaounces just before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve flaounces on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Flaounces pair well with a crisp green salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover flaounces in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of flaounces contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of flaounces contains approximately 30g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of flaounces contains approximately 15g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of flaounces contains approximately 10g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Flaounces are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Flaounces contain dairy and gluten.

Summary

Flaounces are a delicious pastry filled with a cheesy mixture that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12.

Summary

Flaounces are a delicious pastry filled with a cheesy mixture that is perfect for any occasion. With a flaky crust and a savory filling, these pastries are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for flaounces. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, with her garden. As a thank you, she invited me into her cozy kitchen for a cup of tea and some homemade treats.

Mrs. Jenkins was known in our small town for her delicious baked goods, and that day was no exception. She presented me with a plate of golden-brown pastries that looked like they had come straight from a bakery. "These are flaounces," she said with a smile. "A family recipe that has been passed down for generations."

I took a bite of the flaky pastry and was instantly transported to a world of buttery goodness. The filling was a sweet mixture of apples, cinnamon, and sugar that melted in my mouth. I couldn't believe how delicious they were.

Mrs. Jenkins noticed my enthusiasm and chuckled. "Would you like the recipe, dear?" she asked. I eagerly nodded, and she proceeded to write it down for me on a stained index card. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew that I had to make these flaounces for my own family.

When I got home, I immediately set to work in my own kitchen. I followed Mrs. Jenkins' instructions to the letter, carefully mixing the dough and preparing the filling. As the flaounces baked in the oven, the aroma of cinnamon and apples filled the air, and I knew that I had created something truly special.

When my family sat down to enjoy the flaounces that evening, their eyes lit up with delight. They couldn't believe that I had made such a delectable treat. From that moment on, flaounces became a staple in our household, and I made them for every special occasion.

Over the years, I experimented with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations. I tried different types of fruit fillings, from peaches to cherries, and even added a sprinkle of nuts or a drizzle of caramel on top. Each batch was unique and delicious in its own way.

I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who raved about its simplicity and taste. Some even asked me to teach them how to make flaounces themselves. I gladly passed on the recipe, knowing that it would bring joy to many others, just as it had to me.

As the years went by, flaounces became a tradition in our family. They were served at birthdays, holidays, and even as a comforting treat on a rainy day. My grandchildren grew up loving the flaky pastries, and they often asked me to make them whenever they came to visit.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the warmth of the oven and the comforting scent of baking flaounces, I can't help but feel grateful for the day I discovered this wonderful recipe. It has brought so much joy and happiness to my loved ones, and I know that it will continue to be a cherished tradition for generations to come.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a delicious treat that will warm your heart and soul, look no further than flaounces. With a little bit of love and a dash of creativity, you too can create something truly special that will be remembered for years to come.