Description
Indian Cheese Twists are a delightful appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a flavorful mixture of paneer, mozzarella, and aromatic Indian spices. These twists are golden, crispy, and perfect for tea-time or as a savory snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Filling
- ½ cup grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- ¼ teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
Pastry & Finishing
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash) or milk for vegetarian option
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated paneer, shredded mozzarella, chopped cilantro, finely chopped green chili if using, garam masala, red chili powder, cumin seeds, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to evenly distribute all spices and herbs.
- Roll Pastry: Lightly flour a clean work surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a rectangle approximately 10×12 inches, creating enough surface area to spread the filling.
- Fill and Fold: Spread the cheese mixture evenly over half of the puff pastry sheet. Then fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to cover it completely. Gently press the edges to seal the filling inside.
- Cut and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the folded pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and twist it several times to create the signature twisted appearance.
- Arrange and Glaze: Place the twisted strips on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for expansion during baking. Brush the tops with beaten egg or milk to give a golden and shiny finish once baked.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until the twists are puffed, golden brown, and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the twists cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm as an appetizing snack or tea-time treat.
Notes
- These twists are ideal as tea-time snacks or appetizers for parties.
- For extra flavor and crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking.
- You can customize the filling by adding finely chopped bell peppers or onions.
- Use milk instead of egg wash to keep the recipe vegetarian friendly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indian
