Introduction
Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey is a delightful, crunchy, and flavorful appetizer or snack that combines the salty, creamy texture of feta cheese with the crispiness of phyllo dough and the sweet, spicy kick of chili-infused honey. These rolls are a modern take on classic Mediterranean flavors, and they are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even as a delicious snack to enjoy on a cozy evening at home.
The dish is a balance of textures and tastes: the creamy, tangy feta paired with fresh dill and garlic provides the perfect filling, while the crisp, golden phyllo dough adds a delightful crunch. The chili honey sauce elevates the dish by adding sweetness with a touch of heat, making these rolls utterly irresistible.
Using the oven to bake the rolls instead of frying keeps them lighter and healthier without sacrificing any of the flavor or crunch. These feta rolls are easy to prepare, and the presentation is as impressive as their taste. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 18 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/3 cup honey
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the rolls from sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Feta Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine 8 ounces of crumbled feta cheese, 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped dill, and 1 grated garlic clove. Stir until everything is well combined. The dill adds a fresh, herby flavor, while the garlic provides a subtle but fragrant kick that enhances the overall taste of the filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Phyllo Rolls
- Take one sheet of the thawed phyllo dough and place it on a clean, flat surface. Fold the phyllo sheet in half lengthwise to create a long strip.
- Lightly brush the edges of the folded phyllo sheet with olive oil. This helps the dough crisp up beautifully in the oven and ensures it stays sealed during baking.
- Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the feta mixture onto one end of the folded phyllo sheet. The amount you use will depend on the size of your phyllo sheets, but you want enough filling to taste, without overstuffing the rolls.
- Roll the phyllo up tightly, starting from the end with the filling. Tuck in the sides as you roll, much like rolling a burrito, to keep the filling inside. Place the roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Repeat this process with the remaining phyllo sheets and filling. You should be able to make about 12 rolls.
Step 4: Bake the Feta Rolls
- Once all the rolls are assembled, brush the tops lightly with more olive oil to help them achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake or burn.
Step 5: Prepare the Chili Honey Sauce
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the chili honey sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of salted butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of chili flakes and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds. Stir continuously and cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices become fragrant. This will release the natural oils from the chili flakes and cumin, infusing the butter and olive oil with a spicy, aromatic flavor.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1/3 cup of honey. The honey will melt into the spiced butter mixture, creating a sweet and spicy sauce that’s perfect for dipping.
Step 6: Serve the Feta Rolls
- When the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes.
- Serve the feta rolls warm, with the chili honey sauce on the side for dipping. The rolls will be crispy on the outside and filled with warm, creamy feta inside, while the chili honey adds a perfect balance of sweetness and heat.
Cooking Note:
- Working with Phyllo Dough: Phyllo dough can dry out quickly, so be sure to keep the sheets you aren’t using covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel to prevent them from drying while you work. If the phyllo becomes too dry, it can crack when you try to roll it.
- Feta Substitution: If you’re not a fan of feta cheese, you can substitute it with a softer cheese like ricotta, although it will have a milder flavor.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a milder chili honey sauce, you can reduce the amount of chili flakes. Conversely, if you enjoy extra heat, feel free to add more.
Serving Suggestions:
- Appetizer: These feta rolls are perfect as an appetizer for a dinner party or gathering. They are finger food-friendly and pair well with a glass of white wine or a light cocktail.
- Snack: Enjoy these as a snack on their own or paired with a fresh, light salad. The crunchiness of the phyllo combined with the creamy feta makes for an ideal midday treat.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside Mediterranean dishes like grilled chicken, lamb, or roasted vegetables for a full Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the feta rolls ahead of time and freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Alternative Herbs: If you don’t have fresh dill on hand, you can use other herbs like fresh mint, parsley, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Crispy: For an extra crispy finish, you can sprinkle some sesame seeds or nigella seeds on top of the rolls before baking.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 20 minutes
Total Time:
- 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 290mg
Conclusion
Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey is a show-stopping dish that’s simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor. The creamy, tangy feta filling inside the crispy, golden phyllo dough pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy chili honey sauce, creating a unique and delicious combination of textures and tastes. Whether you’re serving these rolls as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
The balance of savory feta, fresh dill, and the spicy-sweet honey sauce makes this dish versatile enough for various occasions. Plus, with the ease of baking rather than frying, these rolls are a healthier take on a traditionally indulgent snack. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, and don’t forget to dip them generously in that delicious chili honey sauce for the ultimate flavor experience.