Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey

Introduction

When I first tried making Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey, I had no idea they would become an instant favorite in our house. The combination of rich, creamy ricotta and tangy feta cheese, wrapped in crispy, golden phyllo pastry, was already a winner in itself. But when you drizzle it with a touch of chili-infused honey, the flavor takes on a whole new level of deliciousness. The balance between the smooth, salty cheese filling and the sweet, spicy honey creates a mouthwatering contrast that’s both comforting and exciting. I made them for a family gathering, and they were gone in no time! My family loved the crunchy texture of the rolls and the unexpected heat from the chili honey. Whether you’re preparing these for a special occasion or just as a savory snack, these Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are sure to impress. Let me walk you through the recipe so you can enjoy these tasty treats at home.

Ingredients

For the Rolls:

• 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled (Choose high-quality feta for a bold, tangy flavor.)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (Adds creaminess and balances the feta’s saltiness.)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional) (Provides a hint of earthy freshness.)
• 6 sheets phyllo pastry (Thawed if frozen, and cut in half lengthwise to create 12 smaller sheets.)
• ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil (Use for brushing the phyllo, creating a golden, crispy texture.)

For the Chili Honey:

• ¼ cup honey (Opt for a light, runny honey for easy drizzling.)
• ½ tsp red chili flakes (Adjust to taste for a milder or spicier kick.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, ricotta cheese, and thyme leaves (if using). Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth, ensuring the feta and ricotta are evenly distributed. Set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Phyllo Pastry
Unroll the phyllo pastry sheets and keep them covered with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying out. Cut each sheet in half lengthwise to create 12 strips.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place one strip of phyllo pastry on a clean work surface. Lightly brush it with melted butter or olive oil using a pastry brush.
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling near one end of the phyllo.
Fold the sides of the pastry inward, then roll it up tightly to form a neat roll.
Place the roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo and filling.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls
Arrange the rolls on the baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between them.
Brush the tops with more melted butter or oil for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Make the Chili Honey
While the rolls are baking, warm the ¼ cup of honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the ½ tsp of red chili flakes and let the mixture warm for 1-2 minutes to infuse the flavors. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once the rolls are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Drizzle the warm chili honey over the rolls or serve it on the side for dipping.
Garnish with extra thyme leaves, if desired, for a touch of color and flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 12 rolls (1 roll per serving)
• Calories per Serving: 200 kcal (approx.)
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 380mg
• Calcium: 180mg

These nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes. The rolls are a rich, indulgent appetizer or snack that provides a good amount of protein and flavor.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

This recipe is quick to prepare, especially for those who want a flavorful dish without a lot of hands-on time. The preparation time and cook time are minimal, allowing you to enjoy a delicious appetizer in no time.

How to Serve

Here are some great ways to serve these Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these rolls as an appetizer at parties, gatherings, or as part of a mezze platter.
• With a Salad: Pair these rolls with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the feta cheese and add some lightness to the meal.
• With Dipping Sauces: Besides the chili honey, try serving the rolls with tzatziki, hummus, or a yogurt-based sauce for extra flavor.
• As a Snack: Enjoy these as a savory snack with your favorite drink or as a quick bite when you’re feeling hungry.

Additional Tips

1. Keep the Phyllo Pastry Covered: Phyllo pastry dries out very quickly, so make sure to keep it covered with a damp towel while you work with it.
2. Use High-Quality Feta: The quality of feta is key to achieving the best flavor in this recipe. Choose a good, tangy feta that will complement the other ingredients.
3. Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red chili flakes or skip them altogether. For extra heat, add more chili flakes.
4. Make Ahead: You can assemble these rolls ahead of time, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
5. Experiment with Different Cheeses: While feta and ricotta create a perfect balance, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese, cream cheese, or even Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

• Herb Variations: You can swap thyme for other fresh herbs such as oregano, rosemary, or basil, depending on your flavor preferences.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the ricotta and feta with vegan cheeses, and use olive oil instead of butter for brushing the phyllo.
• Spicy Twist: If you like more heat, add some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili honey for a spicier version.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Glass of Wine: These feta rolls pair wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• With a Yogurt Dip: Try serving these rolls with a creamy yogurt dip (perhaps mixed with cucumber or garlic) to balance the richness of the cheese.
• As Part of a Mediterranean Platter: Include these rolls with other Mediterranean dishes like olives, grilled vegetables, and pita bread for a complete spread.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing Before Baking: If you’d like to make these rolls ahead of time, you can freeze them before baking. Once assembled, place the rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just brush with butter or oil and bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispy texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these rolls without phyllo pastry?
   Yes, you can substitute the phyllo with puff pastry or even egg roll wrappers for a different texture.
2. Can I make the chili honey in advance?
   Yes, you can make the chili honey ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
3. Can I use a different cheese than ricotta?
   Yes, you can try mascarpone, cream cheese, or even goat cheese as a substitute for ricotta.
4. How can I make these rolls spicier?
   Add more chili flakes to the honey or mix in a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
5. Can I bake these rolls in an air fryer?
   Yes, you can cook these rolls in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes or until crispy and golden.
6. What can I serve these rolls with?
   Serve with fresh salad, hummus, tzatziki, or a yogurt dip to complement the rolls.
7. Can I freeze the chili honey?
   While the honey itself doesn’t freeze well, you can store the chili honey in the fridge for up to a week.
8. How do I prevent the phyllo from drying out?
   Always keep the phyllo covered with a damp towel while working with it, and work quickly to avoid drying out.
9. Can I make these rolls in a different shape?
   Yes, you can shape the phyllo rolls into triangles or small pockets if you prefer.
10. How do I know when the rolls are done?
    The rolls are done when they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.

Conclusion

These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, tangy, and spicy. The rich flavors of the feta and ricotta filling are elevated by the addition of the warm, spicy honey drizzle, making these rolls a unique and exciting appetizer or snack. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, these rolls are sure to be a hit. With their golden, crispy exterior and savory filling, they’re the ultimate bite-sized treat to satisfy all your cravings!

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