Millet Cottage Cheese Fritters Flavored with Za’atar
An exquisite and unique take on traditional fritters, these Millet Cottage Cheese Fritters infused with the delightful flavors of Za’atar offer a perfect balance of taste and texture, making them a standout appetizer for any gathering or special occasion. The rich, creamy cottage cheese blends beautifully with the nuttiness of cooked foxtail millet, while the Za’atar adds a herby, tangy flair that elevates this dish to new heights.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Brown Bread | 8 slices |
| Butter | For greasing the bread |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 200 grams, crumbled |
| Foxtail Millet | 1/4 cup, cooked (yields 1 cup of cooked millet) |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | 2 sprigs |
| Za’atar | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sesame Seeds (Til seeds) | For rolling |
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
To embark on this culinary adventure, begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (about 400°F). Prepare a baking sheet by generously greasing it with butter to ensure that your fritters will bake to a golden perfection without sticking.
Next, we will cook the foxtail millet. In a small pot, add 1/4 cup of foxtail millet along with 3/4 cup of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the millet is soft and has absorbed all the water, which should take around 15–20 minutes. If any water remains, simply drain it off—this nutritious water can be reserved for soups or other dishes, as it carries the flavor of the millet.
Once the millet is ready, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the crumbled paneer, finely chopped coriander leaves, Za’atar, and salt to taste. Stir this mixture well, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. This flavorful filling will be the heart of your fritters.
Now, take your whole wheat bread slices and, using a rolling pin, gently roll each slice to flatten it slightly. This step is crucial as it makes it easier to wrap the bread around the filling. Place a generous spoonful of the millet and cheese mixture in the center of each slice. Wet the edges of the bread with a little water to help seal the roll. Carefully roll it up, pressing the edges to secure the filling inside. Trim off any excess bread if necessary.
Once you have shaped all the rolls, dip each one in melted butter, allowing it to soak up that rich flavor. Then, roll them in a plate of Za’atar and sesame seeds, coating the outside with a fragrant, nutty crust.
Arrange the prepared fritters on the greased baking sheet, spacing them out to ensure even cooking. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
When the fritters are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These delightful Millet Cottage Cheese Fritters can be presented on a party platter and are best served with a sweet date sauce or a tangy strawberry chutney, providing a wonderful contrast to the savory flavors of the fritters.
Indulge in these flavorful bites that are not only a treat for the palate but also a delightful addition to your appetizer repertoire, making them a wonderful choice for any special occasion!
With their inviting appearance and enticing flavors, these Millet Cottage Cheese Fritters flavored with Za’atar are sure to impress your guests and become a cherished favorite in your culinary collection. Enjoy the process of making them, and savor every delicious bite!
