A Taste of Konya's Rich Cuisine

Mevlana Pastry is one of Konya's best-known traditional pastries and a cherished part of the city's culinary culture. Prepared with thin layers of dough and a savory cheese filling, it has been enjoyed for generations and is commonly served for breakfast, afternoon tea, or on special occasions. 

Served fresh from the oven with a cup of Turkish tea, this traditional pastry is one of the most beloved flavors of Konya's rich culinary heritage.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 100 g butter, melted
• 3½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 small cup yogurt
• ½ small cup water
• 2 eggs
• 2 egg whites
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• 125 g white cheese, grated
• 1 bunch parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 egg yolks

Instructions

• Melt the butter and set it aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yogurt, baking soda, eggs, and salt. Gradually add the water and knead until you have a smooth, soft dough.
• Divide the dough into walnut-sized pieces, cover them with a damp cloth, and let them rest for 10–15 minutes.
• Roll out each piece into a circle about 15 cm (6 inches) in diameter. Brush each layer with melted butter, stack them in groups of three, and allow them to cool. Repeat with the remaining dough.
• Roll each stack into a very thin sheet. Brush the surface with melted butter and fold it into a square parcel.
• To prepare the filling, combine the grated white cheese, parsley, black pepper, and egg yolks in a bowl. Cut the dough into squares, place a spoonful of filling in the center of each, and fold them into triangles.
• Arrange the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the remaining melted butter and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until golden brown and crispy.

Serve warm with freshly brewed Turkish tea.