The Comfort of the Golden Fold

These Spinach and Feta Parcels—a golden assembly of flaky puff pastry filled with a savoury blend of crumbed feta, thawed spinach, and parmesan—serve as a reliable, comforting staple. Sourced directly from our family's collection, this dish takes simple ingredients and transforms them into an accessible, everyday comfort. Whether served as a quick lunch or a light dinner, they provide a moment of steadiness and ease, bringing the warmth of the hearth directly to your plate without demanding hours of your time. 

Method

1. Thaw the flaky puff pastry sheets at room temperature.

2. In a mixing bowl, gently combine the crumbed feta, thawed spinach, chopped onion, parsley, egg, grated parmesan, and minced garlic.

3. Cut each pastry sheet into four equal squares. Place one tablespoon of the spinach and feta mixture into the centre of each square.

4. Lightly brush the edges of the pastry with milk, then fold the pastry over to form a triangle. Crimp the edges firmly to seal the parcel.

5. Place the prepared parcels on a baking tray and brush the tops lightly with milk for a golden finish.

6. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for 15–20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden. Note: To avoid burning, keep turning the pastries every 5–10 minutes or so. While the top may look uncooked, the bottom can brown quite fast.

Ritual of Presence

• The Ingredient of Rest: Once the parcels are placed in the oven, purposefully step away from the kitchen workspace. Let the short baking time serve as a period of rest, lightening your load and trusting the heat to do the work while you take a quiet pause.

• The Sensory Anticipation: As the rich, savoury scent of baking pastry, melting cheese, and garlic begins to permeate the house, allow the aroma to ground you. Notice how this familiar scent signals care, comfort, and a nourishing meal to come.

• The Mindful Tasting: When the parcels are cool enough to eat, take your first bite with complete intention. Notice the contrast between the flaky, crisp crust and the soft, warm interior. Let the salty tang of the feta and the earthy spinach linger on your palate, acknowledging the simple, profound comfort this staple brings before engaging in the lively conversation of the table.