Spanakopita
Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 125 ml (1/2 cup) milk
- 125 ml (3/5 cup) vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Spinach, feta cheese, salt, pepper
- 3 sheets of filo dough
- Poppy seeds
- 1 egg yolk for brushing
preparation method for Spanakopita:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the egg, milk, vegetable oil, water, and salt thoroughly.
3. Add the spinach, feta cheese, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
4. Lay out the filo pastry sheets on a work surface and cut them into rectangular slices.
5. Place a small amount of the spinach and cheese mixture on one end of each filo slice and roll it up to form a triangle.
6. Place the rolled Spanakopita on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
7. Beat the egg yolk and brush it over the surface of the Spanakopita.
8. Sprinkle poppy seeds on top if desired.
9. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the Spanakopita is golden and crispy.
10. Serve the Spanakopita hot or warm. You can cut it into triangles or squares before serving.
Spanakopita, a traditional Greek dish, has a rich history dating back centuries. Its origins can be traced to the Ottoman Empire’s influence on Greek cuisine, particularly through the introduction of filo pastry. The dish likely evolved over time, incorporating local ingredients such as spinach, herbs, and cheese.
Spanakopita is believed to have originated in the region of Byzantine Greece, where similar dishes using filo pastry and greens were common. The name “spanakopita” itself combines the Greek words “spanaki” (spinach) and “pita” (pie or pastry), reflecting its main ingredients and pastry shell.
Throughout history, Spanakopita has remained a popular dish in Greek cuisine, enjoyed as a savory appetizer, snack, or main course. Its versatility and delicious flavors have led to its adoption and adaptation in various other Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.
Today, Spanakopita is celebrated worldwide for its crispy filo pastry layers, flavorful spinach and feta filling, and distinctive taste. It continues to be a beloved dish enjoyed by people of all backgrounds, both in traditional Greek households and in restaurants around the globe.
Enjoy