Indian Cheese Pastry

Ingredients

• 300 gflour
• 200 gcheese
• 100 gbutter
• 1egg

Method

1. Begin by bringing the butter to room temperature. This will ensure it incorporates smoothly into the dough. Take the egg out of the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature as well, which will help it blend evenly with the other ingredients.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 300 g of flour with the softened 100 g of butter. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This step is crucial for creating a flaky pastry texture.
3. Grate 200 g of cheese and set it aside. Beat the room temperature egg in a small bowl and add it to the flour-butter mixture. Mix gently with a fork or your hands until a dough begins to form. If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until it holds together but is not sticky.
4. Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough gently for about a minute to bring it together. Be careful not to overwork it, as this can make the pastry tough.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and ensuring a tender pastry.
6. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut the dough into desired shapes, such as squares or circles, using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter.
7. Place the cut pastry pieces onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly caramelized on top.
8. Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm, allowing the flavors to meld together, perfect for sharing around the table.