Zaatar Cheese Rolls: A Delicious and Easy Recipe to Try Today

Zaatar Cheese Rolls are a delightful fusion of flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine. As I take a bite of these warm, flaky rolls, I am reminded of the bustling markets in Lebanon, where the aroma of zaatar—a fragrant blend of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac—fills the air. This dish not only showcases the rich culinary heritage of the region but also highlights the versatility of cheese, making it a beloved choice for gatherings and family meals alike.

People adore zaatar cheese rolls for their irresistible combination of savory cheese and aromatic herbs, wrapped in a golden, crispy pastry. The texture is simply divine, with each bite offering a satisfying crunch followed by a gooey, cheesy center. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal, these rolls are incredibly convenient to prepare and are sure to impress your guests. Join me as we explore this delicious recipe that brings a taste of the Middle East right into your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/4 cup of plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup of warm water
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons of za’atar spice blend
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. I like to whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they are well mixed and aerated. 2. Next, add the yogurt and olive oil to the dry mixture. Using a fork or your hands, mix until the ingredients start to come together. 3. Gradually add the warm water, a little at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need all the water, so add it slowly to avoid making the dough too sticky. 4. Once the dough has formed, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is crucial as it develops the gluten, giving the rolls a nice texture. 5. After kneading, shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Preparing the Cheese Filling

6. While the dough is resting, let’s prepare the cheese filling. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled feta cheese. 7. Add the za’atar spice blend to the cheese mixture. This is where the magic happens! The za’atar adds a wonderful herby flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheeses. Mix everything together until well combined. 8. If you like a bit of extra flavor, you can add a drizzle of olive oil to the cheese mixture. This will enhance the richness and help bind the filling together.

Rolling Out the Dough

9. After the dough has rested, it’s time to roll it out. Lightly flour your work surface again and place the dough ball in the center. 10. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Try to keep the edges as straight as possible for even rolls. If the dough sticks, sprinkle a little more flour on the surface and the dough. 11. Once you have your rectangle, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into smaller rectangles, about 3 inches wide and 6 inches long. This size is perfect for rolling and will hold the filling nicely.

Assembling the Rolls

12. Now it’s time to fill the rolls! Take a spoonful of the cheese mixture and place it in the center of each rectangle of dough. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling difficult. 13. Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough over the filling, tucking in the sides as you go to create a neat roll. Make sure the filling is enclosed well to prevent it from leaking out during baking. 14. Place the rolled cheese rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave a little space between each roll to allow for expansion while baking. 15. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you finish assembling the rolls.

Egg Wash and Baking

16. In a small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash. This will give the rolls a beautiful golden color when baked. 17. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the tops of each roll with the egg wash. If you want to add a little crunch and flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the egg wash. 18. Once all the rolls are brushed and garnished, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and puffed up. 19. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t over-brown. The aroma of the za’atar and melted cheese will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Serving the Zaatar Cheese Rolls

Conclusion:

In summary, these Zaatar Cheese Rolls are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their snacking game or impress guests at their next gathering. The combination of the aromatic zaatar spice blend and the creamy, melty cheese creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing these rolls with a side of tangy yogurt dip or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the cheese. You can also experiment with variations by adding ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Once you’ve made your own Zaatar Cheese Rolls, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the joy of cooking together!

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