Spinach Pies (Fatayer)
Delicious, flaky pastries filled with a vibrant spinach mixture, perfect for snacking or as a light meal.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Skillet
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2.25 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (not hot)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (divided)
- 0.5 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Filling Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
- 1 medium green onion (optional, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the instant yeast in the warm water. Add the granulated sugar and stir gently. Allow to sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add 2 cups of flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then gradually add the remaining flour until not sticky.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
- While the dough rises, sauté the spinach in a skillet until wilted. Add green onions if using, and season with salt and pepper. Let cool.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 10-12 pieces. Roll each into a ball and then into a 6-inch circle.
- Place 1-2 tablespoons of spinach filling in the center, fold over to create a half-moon, and pinch edges to seal.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place pies on the sheet and brush tops with olive oil or water.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add spices like cumin or nutmeg. You can freeze the pies before baking for later use.