Millet Cottage Cheese Fritters Flavored with Za’atar
Recipe Type: Appetizer | Cuisine: Continental | Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Serving Size: 6-8 rolls
These Baked Millet Cottage Cheese Fritters, infused with the aromatic blend of Za’atar, offer a delightful, healthy twist on classic appetizers. The combination of hearty whole wheat bread, nutty millet, creamy cottage cheese (paneer), and fragrant Za’atar makes these fritters a unique choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a winter holiday gathering or a casual dinner party, these fritters will impress your guests with their delightful flavor and texture.
The best part? These rolls are baked, not fried, making them a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. The Za’atar spice mix brings a Middle Eastern flair to the dish, while sesame seeds provide a lovely crunch, giving each bite an irresistible depth of flavor.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Brown Bread | 8 slices (crust removed) |
| Butter (Salted) | For greasing the bread |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 200 grams, crumbled |
| Foxtail Millet | 1/4 cup (cooked; yields 1 cup) |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 2 sprigs |
| Za’atar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sesame Seeds (Til Seeds) | For rolling the fritters |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and grease a baking sheet with a light layer of salted butter to prevent sticking. -
Cook the Millet:
In a small saucepan, cook the foxtail millet with 3/4 cup of water over medium heat. Once the water is absorbed and the millet is soft and mushy (similar to cooking lentils), remove it from the heat. If any water remains, drain it off (you can save the water for soups or other uses). Set the cooked millet aside. -
Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled paneer (cottage cheese), cooked millet, chopped coriander leaves, and salt. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are well incorporated. Add Za’atar to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed for your preferred level of spice. -
Prepare the Bread:
Using a rolling pin, gently flatten the slices of whole wheat brown bread to stretch them slightly. This will help you roll them up without tearing. After rolling, place a spoonful of the millet and cottage cheese mixture into the center of each bread slice. -
Roll the Fritters:
Wet the edges of the bread slice with a small amount of water to help seal it. Carefully roll the bread around the filling, ensuring it’s tightly secured. Trim off any excess bread from the edges if needed. Repeat this process for all the bread slices and millet filling. -
Coat with Za’atar and Butter:
To add a golden, crusty exterior, dip each rolled fritter into melted butter. Afterward, roll the buttered fritter in a bowl of Za’atar spice mix. Make sure each roll is well coated with the Za’atar for an authentic Middle Eastern flavor. -
Bake the Fritters:
Place the prepared rolls onto the greased baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. -
Serve:
Once baked, remove the fritters from the oven and let them cool slightly. Arrange the fritters on a party platter and serve them warm with a side of date sauce or strawberry chutney for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Millet Cottage Cheese Fritters
- Millet Substitutes: If you don’t have foxtail millet, you can substitute it with other grains like quinoa, bulgur, or couscous.
- Adjusting Flavor: Za’atar can vary in its spice level, so adjust the amount to suit your taste. For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of red chili flakes.
- Paneer Substitutes: If you can’t find homemade paneer, you can use ricotta cheese or a firm tofu alternative for a dairy-free option.
- Make Ahead: These fritters can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love These Millet Cottage Cheese Fritters
These Baked Millet Cottage Cheese Fritters are more than just an appetizer—they’re a flavor-packed experience that blends the nutty richness of millet with the creamy smoothness of paneer and the aromatic charm of Za’atar. Their delightful crunch and savory filling make them the perfect finger food for any gathering. Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to deep-fried snacks, offering a lighter option without sacrificing taste. Serve these at your next dinner party or festive event and watch them disappear in no time!
