Authentic Greek Kourou Cheese Pie Recipe

Ingredients

500 grams of plain flour
1 teaspoon of salt
225 grams of unsalted butter
150 ml of cold water
1 egg, beaten
200 grams of feta cheese
100 grams of ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon of fresh mint, finely chopped
1 egg yolk, for brushing
Black sesame seeds, for sprinkling

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together.
Cut the butter into small chunks and add it to the flour. Rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Wrap the dough in cling film and leave it to rest in the fridge for 30 minutes.
While the dough is resting, preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a separate bowl, mash the feta and ricotta cheese together. Stir in the chopped mint.
Roll out the rested dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 0.5 cm.
Cut out circles from the dough using a round cutter. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each circle.
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp with a fork for a decorative edge.
Brush the pastries with the beaten egg yolk and sprinkle with black sesame seeds.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let the Kourou cool on the baking tray for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tools for making

Large bowl - A bowl large enough to mix the flour and other ingredients together.
Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Round cutter - A circular-shaped cutter to cut out the dough into circles.
Fork - Used to crimp the edges of the pastries for a decorative finish.
Baking tray - A flat tray used to place the pastries for baking.
Parchment paper - Placed on the baking tray to prevent the pastries from sticking.
Cling film - Used to wrap and refrigerate the dough for resting.
Wire rack - Used to cool the baked Kourou pastries.

Recipe variations

Use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Replace the feta and ricotta cheese with a different cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or goat cheese.
Add cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables to the cheese mixture for added flavor and texture.
Include some herbs or spices like dill, oregano, or paprika to enhance the savory taste.
For a meat-free option, omit the cheese and use a filling of mashed potatoes or a combination of cooked lentils and vegetables.
Experiment with different types of crust, such as puff pastry or phyllo dough.
Add some chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for a Mediterranean twist.
Try a sweet version by substituting the cheese with a fruit compote or Nutella, and sprinkle with powdered sugar after baking.
Make mini Kourou by using a smaller cutter and adjust baking time accordingly.
For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Recipe overview

Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this delicious Kourou recipe. Kourou is a traditional Greek pastry, filled with a savory blend of feta and ricotta cheese, and fresh mint. These golden half-moon shaped pastries are perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even for a light lunch. By following our step-by-step instructions, you'll be able to create beautifully crimped pastries with a crisp, flaky crust and a creamy, flavorful filling. The process involves making a simple dough, creating a cheese and mint filling, and carefully sealing and baking the pastries until golden brown. The final touch of black sesame seeds adds a visually striking contrast and a delicate crunch. Enjoy the process and savor the results - happy baking!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese. However, feta and ricotta cheese are traditionally used in Kourou.
Can I substitute the fresh mint with dried mint?
Yes, you can use dried mint as a substitute for fresh mint. However, the flavor might be slightly different.
Can I make the pastry dough in advance?
Yes, you can make the pastry dough in advance. Simply wrap it in cling film and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using.
Can I freeze the baked Kourou?
Yes, you can freeze the baked Kourou. Make sure to cool them completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Can I serve Kourou as a main dish?
Kourou is traditionally served as a snack or appetizer. However, you can also enjoy it as a light meal accompanied by a salad or other side dishes.

Serving dishes and utensils

Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Round cutter - Used to cut out circles from the rolled dough.
Baking tray - A flat tray used for baking the Kourou in the oven.
Parchment paper - Placed on the baking tray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Cling film - Used to wrap and refrigerate the dough for resting.
Fork - Used to crimp the edges of the pastries for a decorative finish.
Wire rack - Used to cool the baked Kourou. It allows air to circulate underneath and prevents them from becoming soggy.

Origin stories

Kourou, a deliciously flaky and cheesy pastry, finds its roots in the culinary traditions of Greece. A common sight in local bakeries, it's a favorite amongst the locals who savor it with a cup of strong Greek coffee. The name 'Kourou' comes from the Turkish word 'Kuruk' which means dry, possibly indicating its crumbly texture. Filled with feta, a cheese that is a Greek culinary icon, and often combined with other cheeses like ricotta, Kourou is a perfect testament to the Greek love for simple yet flavorful ingredients. The hint of mint in the filling is a quintessential Greek touch, bringing a refreshing twist to the rich cheese. This humble pastry is a slice of Greek culinary history, carrying within its flaky layers, the tastes and aromas of traditional Greek kitchens.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.