Description
Indian Cheese Twists are a delightful appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a spiced cheese mixture of paneer or mozzarella, seasoned with garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, and cumin seeds. These twists bake to golden perfection, making them an irresistible snack or party finger food inspired by Indian flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup shredded paneer or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or ghee
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to prevent it from sticking.
- Mix Cheese and Spices: In a small bowl, combine the shredded paneer or mozzarella with garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, cumin seeds, salt, grated Parmesan (if using), and chopped cilantro (if using) to create a flavorful spiced cheese filling.
- Assemble the Pastry: Brush the entire puff pastry sheet with melted butter or ghee to add richness and help the pastry crisp.
- Add Cheese Layer: Evenly sprinkle the spiced cheese mixture over half of the puff pastry sheet.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the other half of the puff pastry over the cheese-covered half and gently press down to seal the edges evenly, then lightly roll with a rolling pin to flatten the layers slightly and ensure an even thickness.
- Cut and Twist: Cut the folded pastry into 1-inch wide strips, then twist each strip several times to form individual twists. Place the twists on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the twists with the beaten egg to give them a glossy, golden finish upon baking.
- Bake: Bake the twists in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cheese twists to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm with chutney or spiced yogurt for dipping.
Notes
- Serve these twists with chutney or spiced yogurt to complement the savory flavors.
- Paneer can be substituted with cheddar cheese for a sharper taste.
- Perfect as appetizers, snacks, or finger foods at parties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
