Description
These Baked Za’atar Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta combine aromatic Middle Eastern za’atar seasoning with a savory filling of sautéed spinach, onions, and crumbly feta cheese. Each soft bun is topped with a baked egg, creating a delicious and hearty breakfast or snack. Perfectly golden and flavorful, these buns deliver a unique twist on traditional filled pastries.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon za’atar seasoning (plus extra for sprinkling on top)
Filling
- 1/2 cup spinach, chopped (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 4 small eggs (one per bun, or scrambled, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon za’atar seasoning (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 additional minutes until wilted. Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly, then stir in crumbled feta, salt, and black pepper to combine well.
- Shape the buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a disc on a floured surface, ready for filling.
- Fill the buns: Place a spoonful of the spinach and feta filling in the center of each dough disc. Carefully fold the edges over the filling, pinching to seal the bun completely. Shape it neatly and place each bun seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add the eggs: Make a small indent in the center of each bun using your finger or a spoon. Crack one egg into each indent or add scrambled eggs if preferred.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the buns with olive oil and sprinkle with za’atar seasoning. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the buns are golden brown and the eggs are cooked to your liking.
- Serve: Allow the buns to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen spinach based on availability; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess water before cooking.
- You can scramble the eggs instead of cracking them whole on top if you prefer a different texture.
- Za’atar seasoning adds a unique herbal and tangy flavor, but you can adjust the amount to taste.
- These buns are best enjoyed warm but can be reheated gently in the oven.
- Ensure the dough is well kneaded and properly risen for soft, fluffy buns.
