Potato and Cheese Phyllo Pie with Yogurt Sauce

1. Prepare the Potato Filling:
   • Boil the potatoes in salted water until they are tender and easily mashable. Once cooked, drain and mash the potatoes until smooth.
   • Add 50 ml of milk to the mashed potatoes and mix until well combined.
   • Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 50 ml of oil, and 4 tablespoons of yogurt until you have a smooth and creamy mixture.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Lay the first phyllo sheet on a greased baking tray.
   • Using a brush, spread a layer of the yogurt-egg sauce over the entire surface of the phyllo sheet.
   • Add half of the potato mixture evenly across the phyllo sheet.
   • Place the second phyllo sheet on top and repeat the process: brush with the yogurt-egg sauce and add the remaining potato mixture.
   • Cover with the third phyllo sheet and brush the remaining yogurt-egg sauce over the top.
4. Optional Garnish:
   • Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the final phyllo layer if desired. This adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.
5. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
6. Serve:
   • Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Tips

• Phyllo Handling: When working with phyllo dough, it’s important to keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.
• Filling Variations: You can add other herbs such as dill or mint for extra flavor, or substitute the cheddar cheese with feta for a tangier taste.
• Sauce Application: Make sure to evenly coat each phyllo layer with the yogurt-egg sauce to ensure the pie stays moist and flavorful.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through.
• Freezing: This pie can be frozen before baking. Assemble the pie, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Sugars: 2g

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
   • Yes, you can substitute cheddar with feta, mozzarella, or any other cheese you prefer. Each cheese will bring a slightly different flavor to the pie.
2. How can I keep the phyllo dough from drying out?
   • While assembling the pie, keep the phyllo dough sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from becoming dry and difficult to work with.
3. Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
   • Absolutely! You can add finely chopped spinach, grated carrots, or even sautéed mushrooms to the filling for added texture and nutrition.
4. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
   • Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly. It doesn’t contain any meat, and it relies on potatoes and cheese for its savory filling.
5. Can I use homemade phyllo dough?
   • Yes, if you have the time and skill, homemade phyllo dough would work great in this recipe, giving the pie an extra layer of freshness and texture.

Conclusion

This potato and cheese phyllo pie is a comforting and satisfying dish that perfectly blends soft mashed potatoes with crispy phyllo dough. The yogurt-egg sauce adds a rich and creamy texture to the pie, while the cheese and parsley bring vibrant flavors to each bite. It’s a dish that’s both hearty and light, making it ideal for any time of the day. Whether served hot out of the oven or at room temperature, this pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Moreover, its versatility allows for easy modifications, from changing up the herbs to adding different types of cheese or vegetables, giving you endless possibilities to make this dish your own. Enjoy this delightful, savory pie with friends or family, and let it become a staple in your kitchen for years to come!