Fluffy, golden, and savory pastries perfect for breakfast, snacks, or tea time!

Ingredients:

For the dough:

4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast

1 cup (240ml) warm milk

1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable oil

2 tbsp sugar

1 tsp salt

1 large egg

For the filling (optional):

1 cup (200g) crumbled feta or cream cheese (you can substitute with mashed potatoes or a mix of herbs and cheese)

For topping:

1 egg yolk (for brushing)

Poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or nigella seeds (for sprinkling)


Instructions:

  1. Prepare the dough:
  2. In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  3. Add the oil, egg, and salt, mixing well.
  4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes by hand (or 5 minutes in a mixer) until smooth and elastic.
  5. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  6. Shape the pastries:
  7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  8. Divide the dough into 12–15 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
  9. Flatten each piece, place a spoonful of the filling in the center, and fold or roll into desired shapes. Pinch the edges to seal.
  10. Add toppings:
  11. Place the pastries seam-side down on the prepared tray.
  12. Brush each with beaten egg yolk and sprinkle seeds of your choice.
  13. Bake:
  14. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  15. Let cool slightly before serving.