Flaounes are traditionally made cheese pies that are associated with Greek Orthodox Easter in Cyprus. There are endless ways of making them and many homemade variations of this recipe exist. All versions however have the same main ingredients and preparation methods. They are mainly consumed at Easter, but are still readily available in most bakeries throughout the year. Most Cypriot households however, make them in time for Easter Sunday. This savoury treat can also be made with or without the raisins and this one icludes them.
HOW TO MAKE FLAOUNES
Ingredients:
1/4 of a cup of sugar
1 cup of warm milk
1/2 a cup of warm water
1 packet of dry yeast
4 cups of all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 a cup of olive oil
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 a cup of raisins or sultanas
1 a cup of grated halloumi cheese
1/2 a cup grated kefalotyri cheese
1 a cup grated cheddar cheese
1/2 a tablespoon of mahlab spice
1 tablespoon of ground mastic gum
1/2 a cup of sesame seeds
instructions:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix the warm milk, warm water, sugar, and dry yeast.
Let it sit for about 10 minutes until the yeast is activated.
In another mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.Â
Make a well in the centre and pour in the yeast mixture, olive oil, and 2 beaten eggs
Mix well until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.Â
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a kitchen towel, placing it in a warm place for between 1 and 2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a separate bowl, mix together the raisins or sultanas, grated cheeses, mahlab spice, and ground mastic gum.
Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each portion into a circle.Â
Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the centre of each circle, folding the edges to form a square
Pinch the seams to seal.
Place the parcels on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with beaten egg.
Sprinkle lightly with the sesame seeds and then place in the oven.
Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Let the flaounes cool slightly before serving.
