Savory Goat Cheese Phyllo Pockets with Caramelized Onion and Balsamic Reduction
Indulge in these delightful Savory Goat Cheese Phyllo Pockets, a sophisticated appetizer that is sure to impress your guests! Bursting with the rich flavors of caramelized onions and drizzled with a luscious balsamic reduction, these bite-sized parcels are enveloped in crispy phyllo pastry for an irresistible crunch. Suitable for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant gatherings, pair them with a refreshing glass of white wine for a gourmet experience that will tantalize your taste buds.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Light butter
1 (tablespoon, melted)
White onions
4 (small, chopped)
Sugar
1 (teaspoon)
Balsamic vinegar
1/2 (cup)
Honey
1/3 (cup)
Fresh thyme
1 (teaspoon, chopped)
Frozen phyllo pastry sheets
4 (thawed)
Butter-flavored cooking spray
to taste (for layering and spraying)
Goat cheese
3 (ounces, crumbled)
Instructions
1
Begin by melting the light butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2
Add the chopped onions and sugar to the skillet, stirring often. Cook for about 30 minutes until the onions turn caramelized and golden brown.
3
Next, pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey, stirring to combine. Continue cooking for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy.
4
Incorporate the fresh thyme into the onion mixture and remove from heat, allowing it to cool slightly.
5
Stack the thawed phyllo pastry sheets on a clean surface, ensuring each layer is lightly coated with butter-flavored cooking spray. Cut the stacked phyllo into 6 equal squares, roughly 5 inches each.
6
Spoon a generous portion of the caramelized onion mixture onto the center of each phyllo square, then sprinkle crumbled goat cheese evenly over the top.
7
Gently lift the corners of the phyllo squares and twist them together to form a pocket, ensuring the filling is enclosed.
8
Place the phyllo pockets on a lightly greased baking sheet, giving each one a light spray of butter-flavored cooking spray for extra crispiness.
9
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for approximately 12 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and crispy.
10
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your gourmet bites!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recipe for Savory Goat Cheese Phyllo Pockets?
This recipe is for a sophisticated appetizer featuring caramelized onions, goat cheese, and a balsamic reduction wrapped in crispy phyllo pastry.
What type of cheese is used in these phyllo pockets?
The recipe calls for 3 ounces of crumbled goat cheese.
How long does it take to caramelize the onions?
The onions should be cooked over medium heat for about 30 minutes until they are golden brown.
What goes into the balsamic reduction?
The reduction is made by simmering balsamic vinegar and honey together for 15 to 20 minutes until syrupy.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
How many sheets of phyllo pastry are required?
The recipe uses 4 thawed sheets of frozen phyllo pastry.
How long do the phyllo pockets bake?
Bake the pockets for approximately 12 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
What kind of onions are recommended?
The recipe specifies using 4 small chopped white onions.
Which herbs are used for flavoring?
One teaspoon of fresh chopped thyme is added to the onion mixture.
How do you prevent the phyllo pastry from sticking or being dry?
Each layer of phyllo should be lightly coated with butter-flavored cooking spray.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is melting light butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
How large should the phyllo squares be cut?
The stacked phyllo should be cut into 6 equal squares of roughly 5 inches each.
How do you form the pockets?
Gently lift the corners of the phyllo squares and twist them together to enclose the filling.
What gives the phyllo pockets an extra crunch?
Giving the pockets a light spray of butter-flavored cooking spray before baking adds extra crispiness.
Can I substitute the light butter?
While the recipe calls for light butter, you can likely use regular butter if preferred.
Is sugar used in this recipe?
Yes, one teaspoon of sugar is added to the onions to help them caramelize.
What type of vinegar is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar.
How much honey is used for the balsamic reduction?
The recipe uses 1/3 cup of honey.
What is a good drink pairing for this appetizer?
A refreshing glass of white wine pairs perfectly with these gourmet bites.
Should the phyllo be frozen when you use it?
No, the frozen phyllo pastry sheets must be thawed before you begin assembly.
Do you need to grease the baking sheet?
Yes, place the pockets on a lightly greased baking sheet before putting them in the oven.
What is the texture of the finished pocket?
The finished pocket is described as having an irresistible crunch with a savory, creamy center.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe contains no meat and is suitable for vegetarians who consume dairy and honey.
How do you know the balsamic reduction is done?
The mixture is done when it thickens and becomes syrupy after about 15 to 20 minutes.
When should the fresh thyme be added?
Incorporate the fresh thyme into the onion mixture after the balsamic reduction has thickened and just before removing from heat.
Should the filling be hot when added to the pastry?
The instructions suggest allowing the onion mixture to cool slightly before spooning it onto the phyllo squares.
What is the category of this dish?
This dish is categorized as an appetizer or finger food.
How much goat cheese goes on each square?
The 3 ounces of goat cheese should be sprinkled evenly over the onion mixture across the 6 squares.
Can these be served immediately?
It is recommended to allow the pockets to cool slightly after removing them from the oven before serving.
Is this recipe good for elegant gatherings?
Yes, it is described as a sophisticated appetizer perfect for elegant gatherings or casual lunches.