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Homemade Date Night Dinners

Homemade Date Night Dinners

Homemade Date Night Dinners can be an exciting opportunity to impress your partner with a delicious and romantic meal. When planning a date night dinner, it’s essential to choose dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. Also, it is also fun to make dinner together. read more

Beef Stuffed Piroshki

Beef Stuffed Piroshki

Every country seems to have its version of piroshki, although they may be called by different names. One of my favorite finger foods to prepare for my family and bring to potlucks is Beef Stuffed Piroshki.  These savory baked goods never fail to impress, as read more

Homemade Cheese Pastry

Homemade Cheese Pastry

Aka SIRNICA

Homemade Cheese Pastry

Homemade Cheese Pastry, also known as “Sirnica” in Southeastern Europe, is a beloved delicacy and one of my personal favorites alongside beef burek. Its popularity in the region speaks volumes about its taste and irresistible appeal.

One of the key ingredients of this mouthwatering pastry is the delicate and thin sheets of homemade phyllo dough. Mastering the art of creating these paper-thin layers was a significant achievement for me, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the results.

After months of practice and experimentation, I have gained the confidence to share my newfound knowledge and techniques with others who are eager to embark on this culinary adventure.

 

Tap Here for more Pastry Recipes

While I may not consider myself an expert just yet, I have come a long way in perfecting this recipe. It only took the guidance and mentorship of one person to unlock the secrets of creating the perfect Homemade Cheese Pastry.

Now, I am excited to pass on this knowledge and inspire others to try their hand at making this delectable treat.

Homemade Cheese Pastry

As I said, after practicing making this pastry a few times a week for months, I have had a mixed experience. Some of my attempts turned out very well, while others were not as successful.

Determined to improve my skills, I started documenting my journey. By noting the type of flour that worked well, the temperature of my house and water during this process, and the size of the sections that needed time to rest. 

Type of Flour:

One crucial aspect I discovered while experimenting with bread baking is the importance of choosing the right type of flour. Not all flours are the same and it is really hard to pick them here in the USA because European flours are categorized differently, on a numerical scale: 2, 1, 0, or 00.

This number does not refer to the percentage of gluten or protein in the flour, but rather, to how finely ground it is; 2 being the coarsest and 00 being the finest. In the USA, you have All Purpose and Bread Flour, some bread would add Pastry Flour, as well.

Different recipes call for different types of flour, and using the appropriate one can greatly impact the outcome of any pastry. Through my documentation, I noted which type of flour worked well for this dough recipe.

Temperature Control:

Another factor that significantly influenced my pastry journey was the temperature of my house and the water during the baking process.

I realized that maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the various stages, making was crucial. Also, room temperature of my house and the temperature of the water I used, I could better understand how these variables affected the processes. This information allowed me to make adjustments to ensure optimal dough perfection.

Homemade Cheese Pastry

Make sure to have a white, clean tablecloth or bedsheet so you can spread it over the dining room table. Why white? Well, because you can see if there is anything on it. you want to keep it clean, oh, and not wrinkly.

I used olive oil, although I think any oil would do. That being said, you can knead the dough with your hands. I did it and turned out wonderful, but the next day my arms were limp (insert laughter and cry emoji). It felt like I was lifting weight.

If you have a stand mixer with a hook attachment, USE IT! You will thank me later.

Tasty Filo Dough Recipes

Now that we have this out of the way, let me begin. I made a little video demo just so you can get an idea of what I am talking about but I will try my best to write it as detailed as possible.

Just to say, when you make this dough you can fill it with whatever and I mean whatever you want, sweet or savory. Be patient!

If the first one doesn’t work, the next one will, but after you try my way you will make it for sure if you have the right flour.

burek

 

What will you need:

  • Stand Mixer, if possible!
  • Large alum pans, rectangular. I got two from Dollar General. This is to rest your dough. I only use it for this purpose. Not necessary but I find it helpful.
  • Parchment Paper.
  • Measuring Cup, Scale.
  • Large White Table Cloth or inexpensive Bed Sheet.
  • Clean Kitchen Towels.
  • Baking Pan for baking.

Flour that works well in the USA:

  • Organic Flour from Costco.
  • FIVE Roses AP Flour; Made from the finest Canadian wheat blends.
  • Kroger All Purpose Bleached Enriched Flour
  • King Arthurs Pastry Flour

I am truly confident that with a few tips and tricks, anyone can make their own homemade cheese pastry. With some patience and practice, it can be just as delicious as mine!

If you decide to make homemade cheese pastry, please let me know in the comments or share it with me on social media such as Instagram or Facebook; @sandraseasycooking with the same hashtag #sandraseasycooking.

If you are private you can DM me a pic. I would love to see your creations!

Yield: 6 SERVINGS

Homemade Cheese Pastry

homemade cheese pastry

Easy and tasty Cheese Pastry perfect for any meal of the day.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Additional Rest Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour

Ingredients

DOUGH:

  • 6 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus an extra one cup if needed (900-950g)
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 1/2 tablespoon olive oil (50 ml), plus extra to oil dough
  • 2 1/2 cups warm-to-touch water (600ml to 650ml)

FILLING:

  • 1 block feta cheese (sheep milk)
  • 3 large eggs, mixed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pinch of baking soda

Instructions

  1. To warm water add oil and salt, mix well then add slowly to flour. Knead it until the dough is soft and smooth.
  2. Take it out of the mixer if you are using one and knead, then separate it into 2 or 3 equal balls.
  3. Use a rolling pin to stretch the dough slightly, then place it in a well-oiled pan or on a parchment paper-lined previously mentioned alum pan. It is easier to take it out if you use parchment paper.
  4. Allow the dough to rest for at least 30 minutes, covered with a towel, although you can leave it for several hours.
  5. Place a clean cotton tablecloth or bedsheet on the latest table you have and lightly dust it with flour.
  6. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. Oil your hands, then take one dough at a time that was resting, and stretch it a bit in your hands before placing it in the middle of the flour-dusted cotton sheet (cloth). By pulling on the ends, stretch the dough until it reaches a thin sheet.
  8. Mix feta and egg mixture, then add filling about 3 to 4 inches before the edges, on both sides. Drizzle a bit of oil, then as shown in the video, roll lightly. On both sides. Cut in the middle, then cut each one in the middle so that you will have 4 pastries. Don't make them tight. If you see a bubble let it be there. I made 8 larger Twirls because I wanted bigger ones, but you can make smaller ones too.
  9. The pastry should be placed on a baking sheet and brushed with water and oil mixture; add sesame seeds if you wish. Bake in a PREHEATED oven for 18 to 20 minutes at a high temperature. This depends on your oven.
  10. After it has finished baking, brush it with a bit more oil and water.
  11. Let it cool down under a kitchen towel for 10 minutes before cutting and enjoying.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 404Total Fat: 26gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 97mgSodium: 955mgCarbohydrates: 36gFiber: 1gSugar: 0gProtein: 7g

This data was provided and calculated by Nutritionix. Nutrition information isn’t always accurate, but we try our best.

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

Grilled Lemon Chicken Skewers

Grilled Lemon Chicken Skewers

  It’s a grilling season; nothing compares to the taste of juicy, succulent chicken cooked on the barbecue. Try these Grilled Lemon Chicken Skewers if you’re searching for a tasty and simple summer recipe. These delicate chicken skewers are bursting with citrus flavors and just read more

Oval Pizza Boats

Oval Pizza Boats

  After more research, I have chosen to call this dish Oval Pizza Boats because this style of flatbread with topping or filling appears in more than one country; therefore, we will refer to it as pizza boats. The Turkish call these Pide, while the read more

Italian Sub-Inspired Sliders

Italian Sub-Inspired Sliders

Italian Sub-Inspired Sliders

I am a sandwich gal through and through, and Italian Sub Sliders are truly my jam. There’s something irresistible about melty cheese, savory deli meats, and soft, buttery bread baked to golden perfection.

I have quite a few slider recipes on my blog already, and honestly, I love them all equally—but these are the ones my family asks for again and again.

Whether you’re hosting game night, a casual dinner, or just want something quick and satisfying, these Italian Sub Sliders check all the boxes. They’re loaded with flavor, easy to prep, and incredibly fun to eat.

Italian Sub-Inspired Sliders

Tips for Making the Best Italian Sub Sliders

You can absolutely customize these sliders to fit your taste. While I love using spicy salami and Kentucky smoked ham, you can easily swap in smoked turkey or roast beef. If you don’t have brioche buns, Hawaiian rolls or even simple dinner rolls work beautifully.

One tip that takes this recipe to the next level? I add a layer of sun-dried tomato pesto, and oh my goodness—it soaks into the bread and creates the most incredible flavor.

It adds a little tang, a little richness, and a big “wow” factor. Top that with a pizza cheese blend, and brush the tops with melted butter mixed with Italian herbs, parsley, and garlic powder.

Tap here for more recipes like this tasty Italian Sub Sliders

Italian Sub-Inspired Sliders

Make It Personal

What I love about these sliders is how nostalgic they feel—easy, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.

My kids devour them, and they’re often the first thing gone when we have guests over. It’s one of those no-fuss recipes that always impress.

If you make these Italian Sub Sliders, I’d love to see your creations! Tag me on social media and share your twist—I always get inspired by your ideas!

Tasty Sandwiches

If you decide to make these tasty and simple Italian Sub Sliders, do not forget to tag me on social media.

You can find me on Instagram most of the time, so use the tag @sandraseasycooking with the same hashtag #sandraseasycooking. If you are private, you can DM me a pic.

YOU MIGHT LIKE THESE RECIPES:

Build Your Own Burger Board

Chicken and Bacon Tortilla Pinwheels

Pull Apart BBQ Chicken Sliders

Ham and Cheese Skillet Sliders

Yield: 6

Italian Sub-Inspired Sliders

Italian Sub-Inspired Sliders
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes

Ingredients

  • 12 brioche slider buns
  • 12 teaspoons Sun-dried tomato pesto, more if desired
  • 1/2 lb. shredded cheese, Italian blend
  • 12 slices Italian spicy salami
  • 12 slices Italian Genova salami
  • 6 thicker slices of smoked ham, chopped into smaller pieces
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Open each bun and place it on the bottom of the sheet pan. Then spread an equal amount of sun-dried tomato pesto on each bottom of the bun, following a generous sprinkle of Italian shredded cheese.
  2. Add salami and smoked ham, and add more cheese on top.
  3. Plays the tops of the band back and brush on melted unsalted
    butter, mixed with Italian herbs, dry parsley, and garlic powder.
  4. Bake at 375 Fahrenheit for 12 minutes. Take it out of the
    oven then wait for five minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

If you do not eat ham, use smoked turkey or chicken, or just omit it.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 914Total Fat: 57gSaturated Fat: 29gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 24gCholesterol: 292mgSodium: 1661mgCarbohydrates: 67gFiber: 3gSugar: 12gProtein: 32g

This data was provided and calculated by Nutritionix. Nutrition information isn’t always accurate, but we try our best.

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest