Thessaloniki Bites

Background

Thessaloniki Bites, a delightful snack originating from the bustling streets of Greece's second-largest city, Thessaloniki, are typically savory pastries filled with feta cheese, spinach, and a blend of Mediterranean herbs. The history of these bites goes back centuries, reflecting the rich mosaic of cultures that have influenced Thessaloniki, including Greek, Ottoman, and Jewish culinary traditions. Often enjoyed as a quick snack or part of a meze platter, these bites capture the essence of Greek street food culture. They are perfect for social gatherings and can easily be adapted for various tastes.

Ingredients

• Phyllo dough - 500g
• Feta cheese - 200g, crumbled
• Spinach - 250g, chopped
• Olive oil - 100ml
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Dill - 1 tablespoon, chopped
• Parsley - 1 tablespoon, chopped
• Oregano - 1 teaspoon dried
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Egg - 1, beaten
• Sesame seeds - optional, for garnish

Preparation

Begin by preparing the spinach mixture. In a large pan, heat half of the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for a further minute until fragrant.

Add the spinach to the pan, stirring occasionally until wilted. Mix in the dill, parsley, and oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and allow it to cool slightly. Once cooled, fold in the feta cheese and set aside.

Assembly

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper. Carefully unroll the phyllo dough and cover with a damp cloth to prevent drying.

Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean work surface and brush lightly with olive oil. Place a second sheet on top and repeat the process. Divide the feta cheese and spinach filling along one end of the phyllo, then roll up into a log, tucking in the ends as you roll.

Cut the log into bite-sized pieces, place on the prepared baking sheet and brush with egg wash. Optionally sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture.

Cooking

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Monitor your cooking timer closely to avoid overbaking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Thessaloniki Bites warm, as part of an appetizer platter with traditional Greek dips like tzatziki. They can also be enjoyed as a standalone snack with a glass of ouzo or a refreshing iced tea.

Whether served at a sophisticated dinner party or a casual get-together, Thessaloniki Bites are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the rich flavors of the Mediterranean in each bite, capturing the vibrant spirit of Thessaloniki's culinary scene. Gather your friends, serve these delightful bites with their favorite beverages, and watch as they dive into these savory pastries filled with cheesy, herby goodness.