Dobrogea pie

Dobrogea Cheese Pie - A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Who doesn't love a warm cheese pie that combines tradition with exquisite taste? The Dobrogea pie is a dish that blends a crispy texture with a creamy cheese filling, quickly becoming a favorite at family meals. This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for a hearty breakfast, an appetizer, or even a dessert, showcasing amazing versatility. Let's embark on the adventure of making this delight!

Ingredients

- 400 g phyllo dough (one package)
- 500 g cottage cheese (ideally use fresh cheese with high fat content)
- 500 g sour cream
- 6 eggs (3 for the filling and 3 for the topping)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 100 ml oil (for greasing the sheets)
- Raisins (optional, for decoration)

Step by Step

1. Thawing the phyllo dough: Start by thawing the phyllo sheets. It is recommended to leave them at room temperature overnight. This way, the sheets will be easier to handle without the risk of tearing.

2. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese, sour cream, 3 of the 6 eggs, and the vanilla sugar. Mix the ingredients well with a spatula or whisk until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. This is the filling that will give the pie its authentic and delicious taste.

3. Forming the rolls: Take two sheets of phyllo dough and lightly grease only the top sheet with oil. Spread 3-4 tablespoons of the cheese cream on it. Roll the sheets tightly to form a roll. Repeat this process for all 8 rolls. Place the rolls in the greased baking dish in a spiral shape, so that they blend into each other.

4. Preparing the topping mixture: After placing all the rolls, mix the remaining 3 eggs with the remaining sour cream. This mixture will give the pie a rich flavor and help form a golden crust.

5. Baking the pie: Pour the sour cream and egg mixture evenly over the rolls, ensuring everything is well covered. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 40 minutes, or until the pie is golden and firm.

6. Cooling and serving: After baking, let the pie cool in the dish for 10-15 minutes. This step is important to allow the mixture to stabilize. It can be served warm or at room temperature, garnished with raisins for added flavor.

Practical Tips

- Types of cheese: If you want to experiment, you can also use other types of cheese, such as telemea or feta cheese, to add a note of intensity to the flavor.
- Vegetarian option: You can add spinach or boiled nettles to the filling to create a vegetable pie that is very healthy and colorful.
- Storing the sheets: Before working with the phyllo sheets, make sure to cover them with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This pie contains approximately 300-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins, while sour cream adds a creamy and rich flavor. When consumed in moderation, the Dobrogea pie can be a delicious choice for breakfast or a snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use store-bought phyllo dough? Absolutely! It's the simplest option, but you can also try making phyllo dough at home if you have the time and patience.
- How can I store the pie? Keep the pie in a closed container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.
- What can I serve with the pie? This pie pairs perfectly with natural yogurt or a spicy tomato sauce. Additionally, a dry white wine can complement this dish perfectly.

A Personal Note

The Dobrogea pie is more than just a culinary dish; it is a family memory, a moment of joy and celebration. I fondly remember the moments spent around the table, savoring each bite.

I hope you enjoy this pie as much as I do! Bon appétit!