Kutabi, Azerbaijani Savory Pancakes Filled with Greens and Herbs

For the dough

• • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour+ more for kneading and rolling
• • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• • 1 teaspoon sugar
• • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• • 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
• • 1 tablespoon olive or sunflower oil
• • 2 tablespoons warm water

1. To a large mixing bowl sift the flour, salt and sugar. In a measuring cup combine eggs, yogurt and oil. Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing well and kneading into soft smooth dough, gradually adding drops of warm water to soften it if necessary.
2. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 10 minutes or long enough to have smooth elastic dough; cover with a bowl and let it rest for half an hour.

For the filling

• • 1 large onion, diced
• • 1 medium bunch (about 7-8) green onions
• • 1 medium bunch (about 6) green garlic
• • 2 tablespoons butter for sautéing
• • 1 bunch fresh sorrel thinly chopped
• • A bunch of each fresh dill, cilantro, parsley
• • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• • 1 fresh serrano pepper, seeded and diced
• • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• • Melted butter for the tops

1. Wash the greens and herbs; thoroughly dry in paper towels. Melt butter in a sauté pan on medium heat; add the diced onion. Separate the white parts of the green onions and garlic and then finely chop them, add to the pan; sauté until just softened, for about 5 to 7 minutes. Cool to room temperature.
2. Finely chop the green parts of the onions and garlic, sorrel and herbs; add them to the sautéed onions and garlic; then add the serrano pepper and lemon juice; mix well.
3. On a lightly floured surface cut the rested dough in two sections; roll out each section to no more then 1/8- inch thick round. Place an 8-inch in diameter plate on top of the dough and cut around it. You should be able to get about 3-4 rounds from each section.
4. Spread about 4 packed tablespoons of the filling on one half of the round, living 1/2-inch border, sprinkle with some salt and pepper and cover with the other half, lightly pushing out the air. This step will prevent the pancakes from babble up when frying. Using a fork or your fingers tightly press the edges and then with a sharp knife cut of a thin strip around the edge.
5. Fry on a hot iron griddle or in a large heavy-bottomed skillet. Do not use butter or oil during the frying. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. Spread the tops of the cooked Kutabi with melted butter while still hot and place one on top of the other to serve. Bon Appétit!