Fatayer, a beloved Middle Eastern treat, are triangular pastries filled with a variety of delicious fillings such as spinach, cheese, or meat. Originating from the Levantine region, particularly Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine, fatayer have a rich history that dates back centuries. These savory pastries are often enjoyed as snacks, appetizers, or even light meals, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The dough is typically made with flour, yeast, water, and olive oil, rolled out thinly and then stuffed with the filling of choice before being baked to golden perfection. Fatayer are not only cherished for their taste but also for the cultural significance they hold, representing a culinary tradition passed down through generations in the Middle East. Today, they are enjoyed worldwide, appreciated for their deliciousness and versatility.

Ingredients :

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 1/2 cup warm water

- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Method of Preparation:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the olive oil and activated yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.

3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

4. While the dough is rising, prepare the spinach filling. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened.

5. Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

7. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.

8. Place a spoonful of the spinach filling in the center of each dough circle, leaving space around the edges. Top with crumbled feta cheese.

9. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a triangle shape, pinching the corners to seal.

10. Place the filled fatayer on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

11. Serve warm and enjoy these delicious spinach fatayer as a snack or appetizer.

Nutrition Value:

1. All-Purpose Flour (2 cups):

  - Calories: 910

  - Carbohydrates: 190g

  - Protein: 26g

  - Fat: 2g

  - Sodium: 6mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of calcium, iron, and B vitamins.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides carbohydrates for energy and a small amount of protein.

2. Active Dry Yeast (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: 23

  - Carbohydrates: 3g

  - Protein: 3g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 3mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains B vitamins, particularly B1 (thiamine) and B2 (riboflavin).

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides protein and B vitamins, essential for metabolism and energy production.

3. Sugar (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 16

  - Carbohydrates: 4g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None significant.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides sweetness for flavor.

4. Salt (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1162mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None significant.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor and helps in dough development.

5. Olive Oil (1/4 cup):

  - Calories: 477

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 54g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin E and K, and monounsaturated fats.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides healthy fats and adds richness to the dough.

6. Warm Water (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None significant.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Essential for hydrating the dough.

7. Fresh Spinach (2 cups, chopped):

  - Calories: 14

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 24mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, iron, and magnesium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients, such as iron and vitamin K.

8. Onion (1 small):

  - Calories: 28

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 2mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin C, B6, and folate, as well as potassium and manganese.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor and provides vitamins and minerals.

9. Garlic (2 cloves):

  - Calories: 8

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 2mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin C, B6, and manganese, as well as antioxidants.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor and provides various health benefits, including immune support.

10. Feta Cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled):

  - Calories: 198

  - Carbohydrates: 3g

  - Protein: 10g

  - Fat: 16g

  - Sodium: 764mg

  - Cholesterol: 76mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Rich in calcium and protein, but also high in sodium and saturated fat, so should be consumed in moderation.