Syrian Olive Pastries Recipes

Steps:

• Olive Oil Pastry.
• Combine flour, baking powder and salt in a large bowl and make a well in the centre. Pour oil and orange juice into the well, then mix to form a smooth, satiny dough. Cover dough with plastic wrap and leave to rest for 30 minutes while preparing the filling. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
• For the olive filling.
• Combine all the filling ingredients in a bowl and mix well, then divide in half.
• For the egg-yolk glaze.
• Divide the rested dough into 2 equal portions then roll out each portion into a rectangle measuring 20cm x 24cm. Scatter each rectangle with half of the olive mixture to evenly cover pastry. Roll up to form a log. Transfer the logs to a baking tray pre-lined with non-stick baking paper and lightly brush each roll with the egg-yolk glaze. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire rack to cool. Once cold, slice into 1cm-thick rounds and serve. Makes 36.

Steps:

• Place the green beans into a large pot, and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt to taste, and put the lid on the pot. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until beans are cooked to your desired doneness. Syrians like it cooked until the green beans are turning brownish in color. The idea is not to saute them, but to let them steam in the moisture released by the ice crystals.
• Add cilantro and garlic to the beans, and continue to cook just until the cilantro has started to wilt. Eat as a main course by scooping up with warm pita bread or serve as a side dish.

Steps:

• Combine all the ingredients in a 1-pint jar.
• Cover and let stand in the refrigerator for at least 3 days and up to 3 months.
• Serve at room temperature.