Cheese pancakes

Cheese Scovergi: a traditional delicacy for a savory breakfast

Who doesn't love a warm and delicious breakfast? Cheese scovergi are a perfect choice to start the day with energy and good mood. This traditional dish, originating from some regions of Romania, is easy to make and has a unique taste. Ready to join me on this culinary adventure? Here’s the step-by-step recipe!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 40 minutes
Frying time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 800 g wheat flour (I recommend using type 650 flour for a fluffier dough)
- 400 ml lukewarm water (about 37-40°C)
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (about 25 g) or 7 g of dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Oil for frying (you can use sunflower or canola oil)
- 400-500 g cottage cheese (salty or sweet, depending on preferences)

Preparation steps:

1. Activating the yeast:
Start by dissolving the yeast in lukewarm water. If using dry yeast, let it activate for 5-10 minutes until it forms a foam on the surface. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

2. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add the flour and salt. Mix them well, then gradually pour in the water with the activated yeast. Stir everything with a wooden spoon or with your hands until the dough starts to form. Knead the dough for 10 minutes. It should be soft but not sticky. If it is too sticky, add a little more flour.

3. Rising the dough:
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for 30-40 minutes, until it doubles in volume.

4. Preparing the cheese:
Meanwhile, put the cottage cheese in a bowl and crumble it well with a fork. If you prefer, you can also add some herbs or spices, like dill or pepper, for an even more intense flavor.

5. Shaping the scovergi:
After the dough has risen, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface. Take pieces of dough weighing about 80-100 g and shape them with floured hands. Place them on a floured surface, leaving space between them.

6. Heating the oil:
In a deep pan, pour enough oil to cover the bottom. Heat it until it starts to sizzle. A trick to check if the oil is ready: throw in a small piece of dough, and if it rises to the surface and sizzles, the oil is perfect.

7. Assembling the scovergi:
Roll each piece of dough into a thin sheet, place a spoonful of cheese in the middle, and, using a fork, press the edges to seal the filling well. This will prevent the cheese from leaking during frying.

8. Frying the scovergi:
Place the scovergi in the hot oil and fry them on each side for 2-3 minutes, until they become golden and crispy. Place them on a platter covered with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

9. Serving:
Cheese scovergi are delicious served warm, alongside a yogurt garlic sauce or garlic dip. You can also add a fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers for a pleasant contrast. If you prefer a simpler version, scovergi can also be enjoyed without filling, just as tasty alongside a cup of tea or milk.

Chef's tip:
If you want to experiment, you can replace the cottage cheese with other types of cheese, like feta or mozzarella, or add herbs for an even more intense flavor. You can also make sweet scovergi by using jam or marmalade.

Nutritional benefits:
Cheese scovergi are a good source of carbohydrates and proteins, due to the flour and cheese. Whole flour can add fiber, and cottage cheese is rich in calcium. However, be mindful of portions, as frying can add higher calorie content. A serving of scovergi (2-3 pieces) can contain about 300-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the cooking method.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole flour for scovergi?
Yes, using whole flour is a healthy option, but you may need to adjust the amount of water since whole flour absorbs more water.

2. Can I keep scovergi for the next day?
Yes, you can keep scovergi in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat them, you can fry them lightly or put them in the oven for a few minutes.

3. Can I make scovergi without cheese?
Absolutely! Plain scovergi are delicious and can be served with garlic dip or various sauces.

Variations:
- Scovergi with potato filling: boil some potatoes, mash them, and mix them with cheese and spices for a delicious filling.
- Scovergi with mushroom filling: sauté mushrooms with onions and spices for a vegetarian option.

In conclusion, cheese scovergi are not only a tasty dish but also a wonderful way to connect with culinary tradition. So enjoy every step of this recipe and turn your breakfast into a feast! Enjoy your meal!