Pouggia me Halloumi (Halloumi and Herb Parcels)
Delicate pastry parcels filled with a savory mixture of crumbled halloumi cheese, fresh herbs, and sometimes a hint of mint or onion. These are typically baked until golden and crispy.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 package Phyllo dough(thawed according to package directions)
- 300 g Halloumi cheese(crumbled)
- 0.5 cup Fresh mint(finely chopped)
- 0.5 cup Fresh parsley(finely chopped)
- 3 stalks Spring onions(thinly sliced (white and green parts))
- 1 large Egg(beaten, for egg wash)
- 50 g Butter(melted, for brushing)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil(optional, for brushing)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- 2
In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled halloumi, chopped mint, chopped parsley, sliced spring onions, and black pepper. Mix gently to combine. If using, add the optional 2 tbsp olive oil.
- 3
Carefully unroll the phyllo dough. Keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
- 4
Take one sheet of phyllo dough and brush it lightly with melted butter (or a mix of butter and olive oil). Place another sheet on top and brush again. Repeat with a third sheet for a sturdier parcel.
- 5
Cut the layered phyllo sheets into squares, approximately 10x10 cm (4x4 inches).
- 6
Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the halloumi filling in the center of each phyllo square.
- 7
Gather the edges of the phyllo dough up around the filling to form a small parcel or pouch ('pouggia'). Pinch the top to seal.
- 8
Place the parcels seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- 9
Brush the tops of the parcels with the beaten egg wash for a golden finish.
- 10
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
- 11
Serve warm as an appetizer or snack.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Work with phyllo dough quickly and keep it covered to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle.
- ✓Ensure the halloumi is well-drained before crumbling to avoid a soggy filling.
- ✓You can add a pinch of dried oregano or a tiny bit of grated lemon zest to the filling for extra flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
- Include a small amount of crumbled feta cheese along with the halloumi.
- For a slightly sweeter note, add a teaspoon of honey to the filling.