Pan-Fried Cheese Pies

Crispy on the outside and filled with a creamy, cheesy blend, these savory pies are a comforting treat perfect for a weekend family gathering.

Cheese, Pie

About

These Pan-Fried Cheese Pies are the perfect treat for a cozy weekend with family. Soft, golden, and filled with a creamy, cheesy blend, these savory pies are a comforting treat that remind me of my grandma’s kitchen, where she lovingly made them for our weekend family gatherings. Their simple preparation and rich flavor make them a timeless dish that always brings everyone together around the table.

Serves: 13-14 pieces

Cook time: 60 min

Difficulty: medium

Ingredients

For the dough:
4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour + 5tbs for dusting
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups (375 ml) hot water (or as needed to form the
dough)

For the filling:
2 cups (500 g) cottage cheese
2 cups (500 g) feta cheese, grated
4 large eggs
4 scallions, finely chopped (optional)
A handful of fresh dill, chopped (optional)
For frying:
3/4 cup (200 ml) vegetable oil

Step-by-step

1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking soda. Mix in the vegetable oil and the hot water using a spatula. Once the dough is cool enough to handle, knead it with your hands until soft and smooth (about 2–3 minutes). If the dough feels too dry, add a little more water. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for 15 minutes.

2

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, grated feta cheese, eggs, chopped scallions, and dill. Mix well until evenly combined. You should have about 1.3 kg (2 lb 14 oz) of filling. Set aside.

3

After resting, divide the dough into small balls, each weighing about 60 g (2 oz). You should get 13–14 balls. Keep the dough balls covered with plastic wrap while rolling them out.

4

Roll each dough ball into a thin circle, about 9 inches (23 cm) in diameter. Place two generous spoonfuls (about 100 g/3.5 oz) of the cheese filling over half of the circle, spreading it evenly while leaving a 1 cm (1/2 inch) border around the edges. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges firmly to seal.

5

Heat a bit of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place the pies in the pan and fry for about 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.