Working with filo pastry

Paper-thin translucent sheets of filo pastry are sold ready-made in rolled layers, either chilled or frozen. Strengthen the delicate sheets by using several layers together.

• Take one sheet of filo and place it onto a baking tray. Dot all over with melted butter, using a pastry brush.

• Cover the first sheet of filo with another and brush with more of the melted butter.

• Repeat the process according to how many sheets of filo pastry the recipe requires.

Filo pastry dries out very easily, so work quickly and keep any pastry you're not working with in its plastic wrapping, covered with a damp tea towel. The pastry also cooks very quickly, so keep your eye on it.