A simple dish of layered filo, fresh cheese and butter. Who know simple could be so addictive?
Click here for video recipe and story on Instagram
"Храната е радост, която се споделя най-добре сред приятели и семейство."
(Translation: "Food is a joy that is best shared among friends and family.") - Unknown Bulgarian source
Banitsa is a traditional Bulgarian pastry dish made from layers of thin dough and various fillings, typically including cheese, eggs, and sometimes other ingredients like spinach, minced meat, or pumpkin. The layers are brushed with butter or oil and then baked until golden and crispy. It's a beloved dish in Bulgaria, often enjoyed as a breakfast, snack, or part of special occasions.
The origins of banitsa can be traced back to ancient times, influenced by the Byzantine and Ottoman cultures that had an impact on the region. The dish has deep historical and cultural significance for Bulgarians and is often associated with hospitality, warmth, and sharing.
Banitsa has been a part of Bulgarian cuisine for centuries, with recipes and variations passed down through generations. It is especially prominent during festive occasions such as weddings, holidays, and family gatherings.
The dish is not only a culinary delight but also carries symbolic meanings related to well-wishes, prosperity, and community.
The process of making banitsa involves layering thin sheets of dough, which represents the layers of history and culture that have shaped Bulgaria over the centuries. The fillings used can vary based on personal preferences and regional influences.
Cheese-filled banitsa, known as "sirene" banitsa, is one of the most popular and iconic variations.
In Bulgaria, banitsa is more than just a food item; it's a cultural symbol that reflects the country's history, hospitality, and shared moments among loved ones. Its enduring popularity showcases the dish's significance in Bulgarian culinary traditions and its ability to bring people together.
Bulgarian Banitsa
Prep time 15 mins | Cook time 30 minutes | Serves 3-4
Ingredients:
10-15 sheets of phyllo dough (usually sold frozen), make sure to thaw before using
300g Bulgarian feta cheese (sirene), crumbled (normal feta cheese works too)
4 large eggs
1 cup yogurt
1 tsp sodium bicarbonate
1/4 cup melted butter
Salt to taste
Additional melted butter or oil for brushing
Optional: chopped parsley or dill for garnish
Possible additions: chopped spinach, roasted red peppers, garlic or for a sweet one, honey
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a bowl, beat all the eggs together, add yogurt, sodium bicarbonate, and feta cheese, crumbled. Add a pinch of salt if you want. You can also add a bit of chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Take 4 sheets of phylo and scrunch them into the bottom of the dish, filling all the empty space. add egg yogurt mix over top, maybe 1/3.
Repeat the process with the remaining sheets and, egg and yogurt mixture. Make sure to have some for the top.
Brush the top sheet generously with the egg-yogurt mixture.
If desired, you can sprinkle a bit of sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for added flavor and texture.
Drizzle melted better of the top, covering generously.
Bake the banitsa in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and crispy. If it's cooked, but the top isn't finished, blast under the salamander for 1-2 minutes.
Once baked, remove the banitsa from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting into squares or triangles.
Serve the banitsa warm as a delicious breakfast, snack, or part of a meal.
Remember, banitsa is quite versatile, and you can experiment with different fillings like spinach, minced meat, or pumpkin, according to your preferences. Enjoy this traditional Bulgarian delight!
If you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram or Pinterest – seeing your creations always makes my day. Let's explore international cuisine together!
Want to learn more about Bulgaria? Check out my Travel Guide Series on my Youtube.
If you like the flavors of the Balkans you'll also enjoy these recipes from the subcontinent:
Balkan
Main Dishes
Albanian Fergese - A cheese and roasted pepper hot pot
Bulgarian Banitsa - A cheese and filo dough pie
Croatian Pasticada - A hearty meat dish with gnocchi
Cypriot Koupepia - Meat and rice stuffed grape leaves.
Greek Gemista - A dish of rice stuffed peppers and roasted potatoes
Kosovar Fli - A layered pancake dish
Montenegrin Kacamak - A hearty corn flour porridge served with melted butter and cheese
North Macedonian Tavce Gravce - A filling sausage and bean hot dish
Serbian Karadjordjeva Snicla - A stuffed and rolled schnitzel type dish
On The Sweeter Side
Bosnian Tufahije - A sweet apple and nut dessert
Romanian Papanasi - A sweet cheese donut with berry jam and sour cream
Slovenian Potica - A Christmas bread with nuts and honey
Slovenian & Croatian Strukli - A rolled and steamed pie dish thats filled with ricotta and honey
Comments