Appetizer > Vegetarian > Spinach

Spinach and Cheese Gulha Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying

Special equipment needed:
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet or deep fryer

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add water and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. In another bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, green onions, cilantro, cumin powder, coriander powder, and black pepper.

3. Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out into thin circles.

4. Place a spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture in the center of each circle.

5. Fold the circle in half and pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside.

6. Heat oil in a skillet or deep fryer over medium heat.

7. Fry the gulhas until they turn golden brown and crispy.

8. Remove the gulhas from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.


Time:
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for frying
Serving size:
Makes 12-15 gulhas

Nutritional information:
Calories: 180
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 7g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Feta cheese can be substituted with ricotta cheese or paneer.
- Spinach can be substituted with kale or collard greens.
- Green onions can be substituted with regular onions or shallots.

Variations:
- Add minced garlic or ginger to the spinach and cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- Replace the cilantro with parsley or mint.
- Add chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts to the filling for crunch.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to seal the edges of the gulhas tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.
- Use a non-stick skillet or deep fryer to prevent the gulhas from sticking to the bottom.
- Serve the gulhas immediately after frying for maximum crispiness.

Storage instructions:
Store leftover gulhas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the gulhas in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the gulhas on a platter and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley.

Garnishes:
Chopped cilantro or parsley

Pairings:
- Serve with a side of raita or chutney.
- Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad.

Suggested side dishes:
- Cucumber salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Naan bread

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add more water.
- If the gulhas are not crispy, increase the heat and fry for a few more minutes.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the gulhas thoroughly to prevent foodborne illness.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the gulhas reaches 165°F.

Food history:
Gulha is a popular snack in the Maldives, a tropical island nation in the Indian Ocean. It is typically made with fish or vegetables and served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Flavor profiles:
The spinach and cheese gulhas are savory and slightly tangy from the feta cheese. The cumin and coriander add a warm, earthy flavor while the black pepper adds a subtle kick.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the spinach and cheese gulhas as an appetizer or snack. They are perfect for parties or gatherings.

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Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Creamy, Tangy, Nutty