Historical Roots
Kuwait Cheese Fatayer is a cherished pastry in Kuwaiti cuisine, showcasing a rich blend of history and cultural significance. Fatayer, a type of Middle Eastern pie, originated in the Levant, and various forms of this pie can be found throughout the Arab world. In Kuwait, the cheese fatayer has developed into a popular snack, reflecting the nation’s unique culinary heritage and its interactions with neighboring cultures.
The introduction of Fatayer in Kuwait dates back to the early 20th century. During this time, Kuwait was a significant trading hub, welcoming influences from Persia, the Ottoman Empire, and the Indian subcontinent. Each of these cultures contributed to Kuwait’s diverse culinary landscape. The use of cheese in Fatayer likely came from the region’s common use of dairy products. Soft, salty cheeses like Akkawi and Nabulsi are popular in the Levant and have been incorporated into Kuwaiti cuisine.
Cultural Significance
Cheese Fatayer holds a special place in Kuwaiti households, especially during Ramadan. Families prepare these pastries in large batches for Iftar, the meal to break the fast. The savory Fatayer provides a delightful contrast to the sweet dates and beverages traditionally consumed. The preparation often involves the entire family, fostering a sense of unity and shared heritage.
Today, Cheese Fatayer remains a staple at casual gatherings and formal occasions alike. Its popularity extends beyond traditional settings, finding a place in modern cafes and bakeries. This pastry’s simple yet delightful combination of dough and cheese captures the essence of Kuwaiti comfort food, making it a timeless favorite across generations.
Preserving Tradition
The methods for making Cheese Fatayer have been passed down through generations, maintaining its authenticity. The dough is rolled out, filled with cheese, and folded into various shapes, usually triangles. This careful process ensures the right texture and flavor while connecting the present with the past, keeping Kuwaiti culinary traditions alive.
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Kuwait Cheese Fatayer
Ingredients
Cheese Filling
Instructions
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Mix the flour, yeast, sugar and salt in a deep bowl. Make a pool in the center. Add warm milk and oil. Prepare a soft dough. Cover it with cling film, then with a cloth and let it ferment at room temperature for 15 minutes.
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While the dough is fermenting, prepare the cheese filling. Put the feta cheese in a bowl and mash it well with a fork. Add chopped parsley and dill on it. Finally, add 1 egg and mix well.
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Divide the fermented dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape the meringues by rolling them with the palm of your hand.
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Roll each piece into an ellipse. Place 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture in the centre. Bring the short edges of the dough together and stick them together with your hands.
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Place the fatayers on the baking tray. Whisk 1 egg yolk with 1 tbsp milk and spread on the pastries. Sprinkle a pinch of nigella seeds each of them.
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Bake in a preheated 200 degree oven for 20 minutes. After coming out of the oven, Fateyer is ready to serve. Bon Appetit!
