Sheep Cheese and Potato Pastries

Sheep Cheese and Potato Pastries are a delightful treat that combines the richness of well-aged sheep cheese with the comforting flavors of mashed potatoes. These pastries, served as appetizers or snacks, are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. The flaky and savory dough envelopes a creamy filling made from mashed potatoes, sheep cheese, and a touch of freshly grated nutmeg. When fried to a golden perfection in peanut oil, they become irresistibly crispy on the outside while maintaining a luscious and flavorful interior. Serve these delectable pastries hot and watch them disappear in no time. They are perfect for any gathering or as a special treat for yourself. Indulge in the deliciousness of Sheep Cheese and Potato Pastries and savor every bite.

Serves 12

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 3/4 cup unbleached flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 5 tablespoons shortening
• 1 egg
• 1/2 pound potatoes
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 ounces well-aged sheep cheese, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1 quart peanut oil for frying

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a food processor, blend the flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and shortening until coarsely mixed.
2. Add the egg and 4 tablespoons warm water to the mixture in the food processor. Pulse until a dough is formed.
3. Transfer the dough to a refrigerator and let it chill while preparing the filling.
4. Peel and cook the potatoes until they are tender. Drain and mash or rice the potatoes in a bowl.
5. Add enough milk to the mashed potatoes to create a thick puree consistency.
6. Mix in the diced sheep cheese, freshly grated nutmeg, and a little salt to taste.
7. On a lightly floured work surface, roll out the chilled dough very thin.
8. Cut the dough into 4-by-2-inch rectangles using a serrated or fluted wheel cutter.
9. Spoon a portion of the filling onto one end of each rectangle, leaving a border around the edges.
10. Moisten the edges of the dough with water, then fold the dough over the filling and press to seal it all around.
11. Heat the peanut oil in a deep kettle or pot.
12. Fry the pastries, known as tourtons, for approximately 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
13. Remove the fried pastries from the oil and drain them on absorbent paper.
14. Repeat the frying process until all the pastries are cooked.
15. Serve the Sheep Cheese and Potato Pastries hot and enjoy their delicious flavors.

These Sheep Cheese and Potato Pastries can be served hot, allowing the cheese to melt slightly and the flavors to mingle. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a dipping sauce or condiment of your choice. The combination of the creamy potato filling, the tangy sheep cheese, and the crispy pastry creates a delightful texture and a burst of flavors in every bite.

Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an appetizer to impress your guests, or simply craving a delicious snack, these Sheep Cheese and Potato Pastries are a fantastic choice. Enjoy the delectable combination of sheep cheese and potatoes in a delightful pastry shell.