Ingredients
For the dough:
- Wheat flour: 500g.
- Butter: 50g (melted).
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon (for a light and crispy texture).
- Salt: A pinch.
- Water: About 200ml (add gradually until the dough is smooth).
For the stuffing:
- Cheese: Portions of melted cheese in triangles or grated cheese (mozzarella or emmental).
- Optional spices: A little black pepper or dried parsley to mix with the cheese.
For the sauce (salsa):
- Onions: 2 medium onions (finely chopped).
- Tomato concentrate: 1 tbsp.
- Garlic: 2 pods (chopped).
- Chili pepper: According to your taste.
- Oil: For frying.
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt and yeast. Add the melted butter and incorporate it. Pour in the water slowly and knead until you obtain a smooth, firm dough that does not stick to your fingers. Let sit for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Prepare the stuffing: If using portioned cheese, cut them into small pieces. If you use grated cheese, you can mix it with a pinch of pepper for added flavor.
- Shape the fatayas:
- Roll out the dough thinly on a floured surface.
- Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles.
- Place a small amount of cheese in the center of each circle.
- Fold the circle in half to form a half-moon and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
- Prepare the sauce: Brown the chopped onions and garlic in a little oil. Add the tomato paste and a splash of water. Season with salt, pepper and chilli. Let it simmer until the sauce is thick and flavorful.
- Fry: Heat the oil in a deep frying pan. Fry the fatayas in small batches until they are golden brown and puffy.
- Serve: Serve hot with the tomato and onion sauce on the side for dipping.