Balkan culture is rich in culinary delights, and one of the beloved recipes that captures the essence of traditional Bulgarian food is Banitsa. This savory pastry, filled with cheese and sometimes spinach, is a staple on Bulgarian tables for festive occasions or cozy family gatherings. The crispy layers of pastry and the melty cheese inside create a perfect harmony of flavors that will transport you to the heart of Eastern Europe. Join me on a culinary journey as we learn how to make this delightful Banitsa at home.
Title: Banitsa Recipe Traditional Bulgarian Food
Ingredients:
– 10 sheets phyllo pastry
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– Pinch of salt
– Extra melted butter for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a baking dish with some melted butter.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the crumbled feta cheese, eggs, plain yogurt, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Take a sheet of phyllo pastry and place it on a clean surface. Brush it lightly with melted butter.
4. Repeat the process with another sheet of phyllo pastry, stacking them on top of each other until you have 5 sheets in total with butter brushed on each layer.
5. Spread half of the cheese and egg mixture over the layered phyllo pastry.
6. Continue layering the remaining 5 sheets of phyllo pastry on top of the cheese mixture, brushing each layer with melted butter.
7. Spread the rest of the cheese and egg mixture evenly over the top layer of phyllo pastry.
8. Gently roll the layered phyllo pastry into a coil and place it in the greased baking dish, starting from one end and coiling it up.
9. Mix the sparkling water with the remaining melted butter and pour it over the Banitsa.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
11. Let the Banitsa cool slightly before slicing it into portions and serving warm.
The Banitsa is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when its layers are still crispy and the cheese is oozy. It’s a fantastic dish to serve at breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack to enjoy with family and friends. Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as spinach or even a sweet version with pumpkin and nuts.
Immerse yourself in the flavors of Bulgaria with this Banitsa recipe, a true celebration of tradition and taste. Try it out in your kitchen and let its warm and comforting essence bring joy to your table.
