Moldovan pie

Moldovan Cheese Pie – An Unforgettable Recipe, Just Like Home

If there is a dish that brings back memories of lavish childhood meals, it is undoubtedly the Moldovan cheese pie. This traditional recipe is not just a simple dessert, but a true culinary treasure that combines the flavors and memories of a warm household. It’s time to venture into the kitchen and discover how to recreate this delicious delicacy step by step, with plenty of useful tips and little chef secrets.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g wheat flour (choose quality flour for a fluffy dough)
- 200 ml warm water (warm water helps activate the gluten)
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:
- 1 kg cottage cheese (opt for fresh, well-drained cheese)
- 400 g unsalted sheep cheese (this will add a special flavor)
- 3-4 eggs (preferably fresh, from free-range hens)
- 300 g raisins (choose quality raisins, golden ones are ideal)
- 1 essence of rum (for an unmistakable aroma)
- 250 g sugar (adjust the amount according to your preferences)

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. In a large bowl, add the flour and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the salt in the flour.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the warm water. Mix with a spatula or your hands until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
4. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. This step is essential for a fluffy texture.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the sheep cheese, adding them gradually to achieve a homogeneous mixture.
2. Crack the eggs and add them to the cheese mixture, mixing well until you obtain a smooth cream.
3. Add the sugar and rum essence, continuing to mix until the sugar is completely dissolved.
4. Before adding the raisins, ensure that they have been soaked in rum for 30 minutes. This will give them an intense aroma and delicious taste. Add the raisins to the mixture and stir gently.

Step 3: Assembling the pie

1. After the dough has rested, divide it into 6 equal pieces. When rolling them out, ensure they are thin but not so thin that they break.
2. On each sheet of dough, add a thin layer of filling, being careful not to overdo it, as the pie may come apart during baking.
3. Roll the sheet from the outside in, forming a tight roll. Make sure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

Step 4: Baking the pie

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a large baking tray to prevent sticking.
2. Place the rolls of pie in the tray, leaving a little space between them to allow for expansion during baking.
3. Bake the pies for 30 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. You will smell the enticing aroma of cheese and raisins throughout the house!

Step 5: Serving

Once the pie is golden and ready, let it cool slightly before cutting it into servings. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, sprinkled with a little powdered sugar on top for an elegant look. This pie pairs perfectly with a fragrant tea or a glass of milk.

Useful tips

- Choosing the cheese: It is important to use quality cheese. Sheep cheese adds a special flavor, but you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as ricotta or goat cheese for a different note.
- Raisins: If you don’t like raisins, you can replace them with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for a crunchy taste.
- Variations: You can add lemon or orange zest to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
- Dough care: If the dough becomes too soft, you can refrigerate it for 15 minutes before rolling it out.

Nutritional benefits

This pie is rich in protein due to the cheese and eggs, and the raisins add fiber and antioxidants. Depending on the portions, each piece can contain approximately 250-300 calories, so it’s best to enjoy it in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of flour?
- Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary.

2. How can I store the pie?
- You can store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven to restore its crispiness.

3. Can it be frozen?
- Yes, the pies can be frozen before baking. Make sure they are well wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Preparing the Moldovan cheese pie is a satisfying experience and, above all, a way to bring a touch of tradition into your home. Each bite will remind you of moments spent with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!