Crispy Lighter Bacon & Cheese Turnovers

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 200∘C (fan 180∘C) / Gas Mark 6. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Cook the Bacon: Spray a frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray. Cook the chopped bacon until it just starts to brown. Remove from the heat and chop into smaller pieces if necessary.
3. Prepare the Pastry: Lay one sheet of filo pastry on a clean surface. Lightly spray or brush the entire surface with low-calorie cooking spray or oil.
4. Layer and Cut: Place a second sheet of filo directly on top of the first and lightly spray or brush again. Cut the layered filo sheets into four equal squares (about $12\times 15\text{ cm}$ each). Repeat this process with the remaining four sheets of filo to make another four squares. You should have eight squares in total.
5. Fill and Fold: Divide the cooked bacon and cheese evenly among the eight squares, placing the filling on one half of each square. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
6. Seal: Fold the pastry over to form a triangle. Press the edges firmly to seal the filling inside. Use the tines of a fork or your fingers to crimp and secure the edges.
7. Bake: Brush the tops of the turnovers with the beaten egg white for a golden shine. Place them on the lined baking tray and bake for $18$–$20\text{ minutes}$, or until they are golden brown and crisp.
8. Serve: Let them cool slightly before serving warm.

Chef’s Notes

• Keep it Moist: To prevent the filo pastry from drying out and cracking while you work, keep any unused sheets covered with a damp tea towel.
• Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, mix some finely chopped spring onions or your favorite herbs into the bacon and cheese filling.
• Serving Suggestion: These turnovers pair perfectly with a fresh, crisp salad or a side of steamed vegetables.

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