Caramelized Feta & Honey Phyllo Rolls

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Recipe: Caramelized Feta & Honey Phyllo Rolls

  • Prep time: 20 minutes

  • Cook time: 15 minutes

  • Servings: 8 rolls

Ingredients

  • 1 block (200g) High-quality Greek Feta (sheep’s milk is best)

  • 4 sheets Phyllo pastry (thawed)

  • 4 tbsp Unsalted butter, melted

  • 3 tbsp Honey (thyme or wildflower recommended)

  • 1/4 cup Roasted pistachios, finely chopped

  • 1 tsp Black sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

  • Pinch of Chili flakes (optional, for a “hot honey” vibe)

  • Neutral oil for shallow frying (or cooking spray for baking)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Feta: Cut the feta block into 8 equal rectangular batons. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure the pastry doesn’t get soggy.

  2. Layer the Phyllo: Lay one sheet of phyllo on a clean surface. Brush lightly with melted butter. Fold the sheet in half.

  3. The Roll: Place a feta baton at the bottom edge. Fold the sides inward and roll it up tightly, like a small burrito. Repeat for all 8 pieces.

  4. The Sear: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Fry the rolls for 2–3 minutes per side until deep golden brown and crispy.

    • Alternative: Bake at 200°C for 12–15 minutes until golden.

  5. The Caramelization: While the rolls are hot, drizzle the honey directly into the pan (or over the rolls on a plate) and toss quickly so the honey bubbles and coats the pastry.

  6. The Crunch: Immediately roll or sprinkle the honeyed pastry with chopped pistachios and sesame seeds. Serve warm.

Notes & Tips

  • Dry the Feta: Feta is stored in brine. If you don’t pat it dry, the steam will make the phyllo burst or turn mushy.

  • Work Fast: Phyllo dough dries out and cracks within minutes. Keep unused sheets under a damp kitchen towel while you work.

  • Don’t Over-Butter: A light brush is enough. Too much butter makes the rolls greasy rather than crispy.

Nutritional Info (Per Roll)

Calories Total Fat Carbs Protein Sodium
185 kcal 12g 14g 5g 310mg

The Benefits

  • High Satiety: The combination of healthy fats from pistachios and protein from feta keeps you full longer than a standard sugary pastry.

  • Calcium Boost: Feta is an excellent source of calcium and contains lower lactose than many cow’s milk cheeses.

  • Antioxidants: Raw honey and pistachios provide a hit of polyphenols and vitamin E.

Q&A

Q: Can I make these in an Air Fryer? A: Absolutely! Spray them with a little oil and air fry at 190°C for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. Drizzle the honey after they come out.

Q: Can I prepare these in advance? A: You can roll them up to 4 hours ahead of time. Keep them covered in the fridge. However, do not fry or honey them until right before serving, or they will lose their crunch.

Q: My feta is too salty. What should I do? A: Soak the feta block in fresh water or milk for 30 minutes before slicing. This draws out the excess salt without ruining the texture.

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