Flaounes

Flaounes are traditional Cypriot pastries, usually prepared during the Easter period by Greek Cypriots and Arménians. They have a unique taste flavored with cheese and mixed spices, traditionally kaseri, halloumi, or a blend of cheeses enriched with mint, mahleb, and mastic. Flaounes symbolize familial and communal bonding as they are typically prepared by women working together in groups at home.

History of Flaounes

Flaounes have been made for centuries in Cyprus, with the preparation becoming a joyous ceremonious occasion marking the end of Lent. The recipes are often passed down through generations, and each family might impart their unique touch, whether it's the choice of cheese or the blend of spices.

Ingredients

Preparing Flaounes requires some specialty ingredients, which can be found in Greek or Middle Eastern grocery stores or online.

• Flour
• Kaseri Cheese
• Halloumi Cheese
• Eggs
• Mint
• Sugar
• Yeast
• Milk
• Mahleb
• Mastic
• Sesame Seeds
• Butter
• Salt

Cheesy Filling Ingredients

The filling is key to Flaounes’ unique flavor.

• 500g of Kaseri Cheese, grated
• 500g of Halloumi Cheese, grated
• 8 Eggs (6 for filling and 2 for egg wash)
• 1 teaspoon of Mint, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon of Mahleb, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon of Mastic, ground
• 1 tablespoon of Sugar

Dough Ingredients

For a crispy and soft finish, the dough must be perfectly balanced.

• 1 kg of Flour
• 2 teaspoons of Yeast
• 250g of Butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons of Sugar
• 500 ml of Milk, warm
• 1 teaspoon of Salt
• 2 Eggs

Preparation

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast, eggs, and milk.
2. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture by hand or using a dough hook attachment, until a soft dough forms.
3. Add butter incrementally, kneading until it's fully absorbed and the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1-2 hours, depending on ambient temperature.

Making the Filling

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the kaseri cheese and halloumi cheese.
2. Add the mint, mahleb, and mastic to the cheese mixture, mixing well to distribute the spices evenly.
3. Incorporate six beaten eggs and the tablespoon of sugar into the cheese mixture, stirring until the filling is well blended and set aside.

Assembly and Cooking

Shaping the Flaounes

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Gently punch down the risen dough and divide it into small balls, each about the size of a lemon. Roll out each ball onto a floured surface into a circle about 5mm thick.
3. Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the cheese filling into the center of each circle, folding the sides to form a square or triangle, leaving the top exposed to reveal the cheesy filling.
4. Seal the edges by pinching them firmly, ensuring they do not open during baking.

Baking the Flaounes

1. Place the sesame seeds on a plate and gently dip the sealed side of each Flaouna in the sesame seeds to coat the base.
2. Arrange the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each one.
3. Brush the exposed dough edges with beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and the cheese filling puffs and takes a light golden hue. A cooking timer can ensure perfect timing.

How to Enjoy Flaounes

Flaounes are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, where the exterior is beautifully crisp, and the center is irresistibly gooey and aromatic. These pastries pair wonderfully with a refreshing shot of Cypriot coffee or a pot of hot tea. Flaounes also serve well as leftovers; serve them with a light salad, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze feast. Until next time, happy baking!