Description
These Baked Za’atar Egg Buns with Spinach and Feta combine fluffy, yeasted buns filled with a savory mixture of spinach and feta cheese, topped with a perfectly baked egg and sprinkled with fragrant za’atar seasoning. This Middle Eastern-inspired savory treat is perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering a delicious balance of herbs, creamy cheese, and a soft egg center.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 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
Filling Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup spinach, chopped (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon za’atar seasoning
Topping
- 4 small eggs (one per bun, or scrambled if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Extra za’atar seasoning for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, dry yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough by hand for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and allow the dough to rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Cook the Filling: While the dough is rising, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Mix in crumbled feta cheese, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon za’atar seasoning.
- Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a disc on a floured surface.
- Fill the Buns: Place a spoonful of the spinach and feta filling in the center of each dough disc. Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching the sides to seal completely. Shape each bun into a smooth ball and place them seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add Eggs: Using your finger or a spoon, make a small indent in the center of each bun. Crack one egg into each indent, or alternatively use scrambled eggs as preferred.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Buns: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the buns generously with olive oil and sprinkle with additional za’atar seasoning.
- Bake the Buns: Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, until the buns are golden brown and the eggs have cooked to your liking.
- Serve: Allow the buns to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen spinach; if frozen, thaw and drain excess water before cooking.
- You can scramble the eggs before filling the buns if you prefer a less runny yolk.
- Za’atar seasoning can be found in Middle Eastern markets or specialty stores.
- For a richer flavor, brush tops with olive oil multiple times during baking.
- These buns are best enjoyed the day they are baked but can be reheated gently the next day.
