hajavoi

Hajavoi is a traditional Hungarian pastry, often described as a type of puff pastry or layered dough. The name literally translates to "hajar" meaning "to spread" and "voi" meaning "butter," hinting at the extensive layering process involving butter. While similar to French puff pastry, hajavoi typically uses a yeasted dough, which contributes to a slightly different texture and flavor.

The creation of hajavoi is a labor-intensive process. The dough is repeatedly rolled out and folded with butter incorporated between the layers. This process, known as laminating, creates numerous thin layers of dough separated by butter. When baked, the water in the butter turns to steam, causing these layers to puff up and separate, resulting in a flaky, airy, and rich pastry.

Hajavoi is versatile and can be used in both sweet and savory applications. It is commonly shaped into various forms, such as crescents or triangles, and can be filled with sweet fillings like jam, nuts, or cheese, or savory fillings such as meat or vegetables. It is often enjoyed as a breakfast item, a snack, or a dessert. The characteristic crispness and buttery flavor make it a popular choice in Hungarian cuisine.