Crunchy, savory, with a spicy-sweet kick! Perfect for appetizers or a fun snack.
If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s both savory and sweet, with a hint of heat, you’re in for a treat with these Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey! Imagine crispy, golden rolls filled with a creamy feta mixture, paired with a sweet and spicy chili honey drizzle. Whether you’re preparing these for a casual snack, a fun dinner, or an elegant appetizer for a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious dish that will elevate any occasion.
What Are Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey?
Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are an irresistible combination of crispy, savory spring rolls filled with a rich feta cheese mixture. The rolls are baked to perfection in the oven, making them lighter than traditional fried spring rolls, while still offering that golden crunch. The pièce de résistance is the sweet and spicy chili honey drizzle that complements the rich, salty feta with just the right amount of heat.
This recipe offers a balance of flavors and textures: crispy, cheesy, and a kick of spice that blends beautifully with the natural sweetness of honey. It’s easy to prepare and can be made in a relatively short time, perfect for when you need a crowd-pleasing dish.
Origin of the Recipe
The concept of feta cheese in savory rolls can be traced back to Mediterranean cuisine, where cheese plays a central role in many dishes. Feta cheese, a crumbly, tangy cheese made from sheep’s milk or goat’s milk, has been a staple in Greek cooking for centuries. It’s often used in salads, pastries, and baked dishes. The idea of combining feta with a sweet and spicy element, like chili honey, is a modern twist that blends traditional Mediterranean ingredients with contemporary flavors.
The addition of chili to honey is a growing trend in global kitchens, with the fusion of spicy and sweet flavors being a popular combination in many cuisines. The combination of chili honey with feta cheese rolls takes these distinct cultural flavors and creates an exciting, fusion-style appetizer that is universally appealing.
Ingredients with Quantities
Here’s everything you need to make these delicious oven-fried feta rolls with chili honey:
For the Feta Rolls:
- 200g (7 oz) feta cheese – Crumbled for easy mixing
- 6-8 large spring roll wrappers (or phyllo dough sheets) – These provide the crunchy exterior
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds richness and flavor to the feta mixture
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings in a touch of Mediterranean flair
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – For added savory depth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For brushing the rolls and ensuring they get golden brown
For the Chili Honey:
- 1/4 cup honey – The sweet base of the sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps in making the honey drizzle smooth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried chili flakes (or to taste) – For the spicy kick
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) – Adds a smoky depth to the chili honey
- Pinch of sea salt – Enhances the overall flavors and balances the sweetness
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
Preparing the Feta Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents the rolls from sticking.
- Prepare the feta filling:
Crumble the feta cheese into a mixing bowl. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined but still slightly crumbly. You want the filling to be cohesive, yet not too smooth. - Assemble the rolls:
Lay a spring roll wrapper or phyllo dough sheet flat on a clean surface. If you’re using phyllo dough, make sure to keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the feta mixture onto the bottom of the wrapper. Carefully roll it up tightly, folding in the sides as you go. If you’re using spring roll wrappers, seal the edges with a bit of water. If you’re using phyllo dough, brush the edges with a bit of olive oil to seal the roll. - Bake the rolls:
Arrange the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil to ensure they get a nice crispy texture during baking.
Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
Preparing the Chili Honey:
- Prepare the chili honey:
In a small saucepan, combine the honey, olive oil, chili flakes, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of sea salt.
Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes until the honey is warm and the chili flakes infuse their heat into the honey. Be careful not to let the mixture boil—just warm it enough to combine the flavors. - Serve:
Once the feta rolls are ready, drizzle the warm chili honey over the crispy rolls, or serve the honey as a dipping sauce on the side.
Variations of Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey
While Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are delicious as is, there are plenty of ways you can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences.
Different Wrappers
- Phyllo Dough vs. Spring Rolls: If you want a flakier, more delicate crust, go for phyllo dough. It’s buttery and crispy when baked. For a sturdier, heartier option, use spring roll wrappers, which are perfect for holding the feta mixture.
Spice Level Adjustments
- Milder Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, use fewer chili flakes or substitute with bell pepper flakes, which provide flavor without the heat.
- Extra Heat: If you like things spicier, you can add extra chili flakes or use fresh chili peppers like jalapeños or Thai bird’s eye chilies for the chili honey sauce.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like basil, mint, or thyme can be added to the feta mixture for an additional burst of flavor. You could also try adding a few leaves of finely chopped spinach or arugula for extra freshness.
Serving Variations
- Serve with Dips: In addition to the chili honey drizzle, these rolls pair wonderfully with tzatziki, a cool yogurt-based dip, or a simple garlic aioli for a creamy contrast to the heat.
FAQs About Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey
Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the rolls in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them in the oven.
Q: Can I freeze the rolls?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the rolls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use fresh feta cheese?
A: Yes, you can! Fresh feta works just as well as crumbled feta. Just be sure to crumble it yourself or chop it into small pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Q: Can I adjust the sweetness of the chili honey?
A: Yes, you can increase or decrease the amount of honey to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the honey and add a little extra chili flakes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are a fantastic appetizer or snack that balances the richness of feta with the sweet heat of chili honey. The crispy texture of the rolls, combined with the creamy feta filling, makes for an irresistible bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging in a fun snack, these rolls are sure to impress. By adjusting the spice level and adding your own creative variations, you can tailor this dish to suit your personal taste. So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and enjoy a crunchy, savory, spicy-sweet treat that’s sure to be a hit every time!
PrintOven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are an irresistible combination of crispy, savory spring rolls filled with a rich feta cheese mixture. The rolls are baked to perfection in the oven, making them lighter than traditional fried spring rolls, while still offering that golden crunch. The pièce de résistance is the sweet and spicy chili honey drizzle that complements the rich, salty feta with just the right amount of heat.
Ingredients
For the Feta Rolls:
-
200g (7 oz) feta cheese – Crumbled for easy mixing
-
6-8 large spring roll wrappers (or phyllo dough sheets) – These provide the crunchy exterior
-
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds richness and flavor to the feta mixture
-
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings in a touch of Mediterranean flair
-
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – For added savory depth
-
1 tablespoon olive oil – For brushing the rolls and ensuring they get golden brown
For the Chili Honey:
-
1/4 cup honey – The sweet base of the sauce
-
1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps in making the honey drizzle smooth
-
1/2 teaspoon dried chili flakes (or to taste) – For the spicy kick
-
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) – Adds a smoky depth to the chili honey
-
Pinch of sea salt – Enhances the overall flavors and balances the sweetness
Instructions
Preparing the Feta Rolls:
-
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents the rolls from sticking.
-
Prepare the feta filling:
Crumble the feta cheese into a mixing bowl. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined but still slightly crumbly. You want the filling to be cohesive, yet not too smooth. -
Assemble the rolls:
Lay a spring roll wrapper or phyllo dough sheet flat on a clean surface. If you’re using phyllo dough, make sure to keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the feta mixture onto the bottom of the wrapper. Carefully roll it up tightly, folding in the sides as you go. If you’re using spring roll wrappers, seal the edges with a bit of water. If you’re using phyllo dough, brush the edges with a bit of olive oil to seal the roll. -
Bake the rolls:
Arrange the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil to ensure they get a nice crispy texture during baking.
Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
Preparing the Chili Honey:
-
Prepare the chili honey:
In a small saucepan, combine the honey, olive oil, chili flakes, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of sea salt.
Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes until the honey is warm and the chili flakes infuse their heat into the honey. Be careful not to let the mixture boil—just warm it enough to combine the flavors. -
Serve:
Once the feta rolls are ready, drizzle the warm chili honey over the crispy rolls, or serve the honey as a dipping sauce on the side.
Notes
Serve warm with an extra drizzle of chili honey and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch. These crispy rolls pair beautifully with a fresh cucumber salad or mint yogurt dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey