Vatruski - traditional Russian recipe for cheese pastries

Vatruski: Russian Cheese Pies - An Unforgettable Delicacy

Are you dreaming of a delicious snack that will delight your senses and pamper you with delicate flavors? Look no further! Vatruski, these Russian cheese pies, are the perfect choice. Tender, aromatic, and refined, this traditional recipe will turn any meal into a celebration. So, let’s embark on this culinary journey!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12 pies

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 3 egg whites
- 250 ml lukewarm milk
- 130 g sugar
- 10 g dry yeast
- A pinch of salt
- 50 g melted butter
- Vegetable oil for greasing

For the filling:
- 200 g cottage cheese
- 50 g sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar

For brushing:
- 1 egg
- 50 ml milk

A Brief History of Vatruski

Vatruski has its roots in the culinary traditions of Russia, where cheese-filled pies have been a popular snack for centuries. These delicacies were often made in households to be served at family meals, as well as shared with guests. Today’s recipe preserves the authenticity of these pies, bringing them into our homes with a touch of modernity.

Step by Step to Perfect Vatruski

1. Preparing the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix 10 g of dry yeast with 50 ml of lukewarm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This will ensure optimal rising of the dough.
In a large bowl, combine 250 ml of lukewarm milk with 130 g of sugar and a pinch of salt. Add the 3 lightly beaten egg whites and the activated yeast. Mix well.
Gradually add the flour while continuously mixing until a dough begins to form. Add the melted butter and knead the dough well for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and easily pulls away from your hands.
*Practical Tip:* If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it. The ideal dough should be slightly soft.

2. Dough Rising
Grease a clean bowl with a little vegetable oil and place the dough in it, covering it with a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour. This step is essential for achieving fluffy pies.

3. Preparing the Filling
In another bowl, mash 200 g of cottage cheese with a fork, adding 50 g of sugar, 1 egg yolk, and the vanilla sugar. Mix well until you achieve a smooth mixture.
*Tip:* If you desire a creamier texture, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of sour cream to the filling. This will add a rich flavor and pleasant consistency.

4. Shaping the Pies
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal balls. Let them rest for 10-15 minutes.
On a floured surface, press each ball to form a circle with a diameter of about 10 cm. Then, make a slight indentation in the center of each circle, being careful not to pierce through.
Brush each indentation with a mixture of 50 ml of milk and 1 beaten egg, then fill them with the cheese mixture.

5. Second Rising
Place the pies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This will make the pies even fluffier.

6. Baking Vatruski
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Bake the pies for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and beautifully browned.
*Serving Tip:* As soon as you take them out of the oven, dust them with powdered sugar for an attractive appearance. You can serve them warm alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

Nutritional Benefits

These cheese pies are a good source of protein thanks to the cottage cheese and can provide an energy boost from the carbohydrates in the flour. Whole wheat flour can be used to add fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can experiment with feta cheese, ricotta, or even mascarpone for unique flavors.

2. Can Vatruski be frozen?
Absolutely! These pies can be frozen before baking. Place them on a tray, freeze for an hour, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to prepare them, let them thaw at room temperature and bake according to the instructions.

3. What drinks pair well with them?
Vatruski pair wonderfully with a cup of fruit tea or flavored coffee. You can also try a fresh fruit smoothie for a refreshing combination.

Possible Variations

To add a touch of creativity to your recipe, you can try the following variations:
- Vatruski with raisins: Add 50 g of raisins to the cheese filling for a sweet note.
- Vatruski with greens: Replace the cottage cheese with feta cheese and add fresh dill or spinach for a savory version.
- Vatruski with chocolate: If you want to turn these pies into a dessert, add a few pieces of dark chocolate to the cheese filling.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! Vatruski are an excellent choice for any occasion, whether served as a snack, breakfast, or dessert. Treat yourself and your loved ones to these delicious pies, and the result will surely be appreciated!