imagine biting into a golden,crispy pastry that unfolds layers of rich,melted cheese entwined with fragrant herbs-each mouthful a harmony of savory delight and aromatic charm. Welcome to the world of cheese and herb briouats, a culinary treasure hailing from North African kitchens, now captivating taste buds worldwide. Thes delectable parcels blend tradition with creativity, offering a flavorful twist that transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible appetizer or snack. In this article, we’ll explore the art of crafting these savory gems, revealing how the marriage of cheese and fresh herbs wrapped in delicate pastry creates a bite-sized experience bursting with taste and texture.
Flavorful savory Cheese & Herb Briouats invite you on a sensory journey where crisp, buttery pastries embrace a vibrant, herb-infused cheese filling.Rooted in Moroccan culinary tradition, these golden triangles offer an irresistible balance of textures and flavors, perfect as elegant appetizers or festive finger foods. Crafted with care, these briouats capture the essence of aromatic herbs and melting cheeses wrapped in paper-thin filo sheets, delivering a warm, crispy bite that’s sure to impress every palate.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 25 minutes
- cooking: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield
Approximately 24 briouats (serves 6-8 as appetizers)
Difficulty Level
Medium – Requires finesse with filo pastry handling and frying technique, but fully achievable with clear steps.
Ingredients
- 8 sheets filo pastry, thawed and covered to prevent drying
- 1 1/2 cups crumbled ricotta cheese or fresh farmer’s cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (for melty texture)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint leaves
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing filo
- Vegetable oil, for shallow frying
- 1 egg yolk, lightly beaten (for sealing)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced shallot, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the ground cumin and smoked paprika for 1 minute to toast the spices gently.
- Mix cheese and herbs: in a bowl, combine the sautéed shallot-garlic mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, parsley, cilantro, and mint. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – the flavor should be vibrant but balanced.
- Prepare filo sheets: lay one filo sheet flat on a clean surface and brush lightly with olive oil. Place a second sheet on top and brush with olive oil again. Cut layered sheets into 3-inch-wide strips for folding.
- Filling and folding: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cheese & herb mixture at one end of a filo strip.fold it diagonally to form a triangle,folding over repeatedly to maintain the shape until the entire strip is enclosed.Seal the final edge with beaten egg yolk to ensure the briouat stays closed.
- Repeat: continue filling and folding all strips until the filling is used up. Keep briouats covered with a slightly damp towel to prevent drying out before frying.
- Fry to golden perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the briouats in batches – don’t overcrowd the pan – turning occasionally until they are crispy and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve warm: Arrange briouats on a platter and garnish with fresh herb sprigs or a light dusting of sumac for an extra pop of color and acidity.
tips for Success
- Keep filo sheets covered: Always cover filo pastry with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying and becoming brittle while working.
- Folding finesse: Take your time folding the triangles, ensuring no air pockets form, which helps prevent bursting during frying.
- Cheese substitutes: Feel free to swap ricotta for goat cheese or a mild feta for a tangier profile.
- Make ahead: Prepare folded briouats and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before frying; bring to room temperature before cooking.
- Oil temperature check: Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain oil between 340-360°F (170-180°C) to achieve golden crunch without absorbing excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Delicious Savory Cheese & Herb Briouats alongside a vibrant harissa yogurt dip, or a cool cucumber-tahini sauce for refreshing balance. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and microgreens to elevate the presentation. Pair with a crisp sparkling water infused with lemon and fresh herbs, or freshly brewed Moroccan mint tea to honor the dish’s origin.Perfect for cocktail parties, brunch buffets, or as an enticing starter for dinner gatherings.
| Nutrient | Amount (per 3 briouats) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
Explore more Moroccan-inspired appetizers in our Moroccan Cuisine Appetizers collection. For an in-depth understanding of spices used in briouats,visit Serious Eats’ Moroccan Spices Guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Delicious savory Cheese & herb Briouats: A Flavorful Twist
Q1: What exactly are briouats?
A1: briouats are traditional Moroccan pastries, typically made by folding thin sheets of dough-called warqa or phyllo-into small triangular or cylindrical shapes. They’re usually stuffed with sweet or savory fillings and then fried or baked until perfectly crisp and golden. In savory versions,cheese and herbs bring layers of flavor and a delightful texture contrast.Q2: What makes the cheese and herb filling so special in these briouats?
A2: The magic lies in the blend of creamy, melty cheese with fresh, aromatic herbs. common choices include tangy feta, mild goat cheese, or a sharp white cheese, combined with vibrant herbs like parsley, cilantro, and mint. This combination creates a balance of richness, freshness, and a slight tang that brightens every bite.Q3: Can I customize the herbs or cheese in these briouats?
A3: Absolutely! Briouats are wonderfully versatile. Feel free to experiment with herbs such as thyme, chives, or dill for different flavor notes. Cheese options like ricotta, halloumi, or a crumbly aged cheese can add unique textures and tastes. The key is to maintain a balance so the filling stays moist and flavorful.
Q4: Is frying the only way to cook briouats?
A4: While traditional briouats are often fried to achieve a crispy, golden exterior, they can also be baked for a lighter alternative. Baking at a high temperature with a light brush of oil ensures they turn out crisp and delicious, preserving all the cheesy, herby goodness inside without excess oil.Q5: How can briouats be served for different occasions?
A5: Briouats are incredibly adaptable. Serve them as appetizers at a dinner party to wow guests with their flaky texture and savory punch. They also make wonderful finger foods for casual gatherings or a flavorful snack alongside a fresh salad for lunch. Their portability and rich taste make them perfect for picnics or potlucks too.
Q6: Are briouats difficult to make at home?
A6: Not at all! With a little practice, folding the dough becomes second nature. the filling is simple to prepare, and using store-bought phyllo sheets or warqa dough cuts down on prep time. The most rewarding part is the satisfying crunch and aroma as they cook, promising a restaurant-quality treat made right in your kitchen.
Q7: What are some tips to keep briouats crisp after cooking?
A7: To maintain that signature crunch, drain fried briouats on paper towels promptly and serve them hot or at room temperature. If baking, use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air circulation. Avoid stacking them while warm to prevent steam softening the exterior.
Q8: Can briouats be prepared ahead of time?
A8: Yes! You can assemble briouats and freeze them uncooked on a tray, then transfer to a bag or container. When ready, simply fry or bake straight from frozen-just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes them perfect for fast entertaining or unexpected cravings.
Embrace the playful crunch and herbaceous delight of savory cheese and herb briouats-a simple twist that transports your palate on a flavorful journey!
In Summary
Whether enjoyed as a charming appetizer at a lively gathering or savored as a cozy snack on a quite afternoon, these delicious savory cheese and herb briouats bring a delightful burst of flavor wrapped in delicate, crispy pastry. Their perfect balance of creamy cheese, fresh herbs, and just the right hint of spice invites you to explore new taste horizons while honoring traditional culinary artistry.So next time you’re craving something both comforting and exciting, remember that these little parcels of flavor offer a flavorful twist that’s as versatile as it is irresistible. Happy cooking-and even happier tasting!
