Bulgarian Banitsa Recipe :Bulgarian banitsa is a beloved pastry that we have come to enjoy for its delicious flavors and delightful texture. This traditional Bulgarian cheese pie, often enjoyed as a breakfast dish or snack, features layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with a savory mixture of cheese, yogurt, and eggs. As we traveled through Sofia, we discovered that banitsa is not just food; it’s a part of Bulgarian culture.
The recipe for banitsa varies from household to household, making it a unique culinary experience. We love how easy it is to prepare, whether for a special brunch or a simple family meal.
Exploring this dish offers insights not only into Bulgarian cuisine but also into its rich traditions.
Join us as we dive into the details of this delightful recipe. We will share our favorite way to make Bulgarian banitsa, along with tips and tricks to achieve that perfect flaky crust and rich flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Bulgarian Banitsa Recipe
We believe this Bulgarian Banitsa recipe is a must-try for several reasons.
1. Versatile Meal Options
Banitsa is perfect for any meal. Enjoy it as a savory breakfast, a tasty snack, or a satisfying lunch or dinner.
It fits seamlessly into Eastern European cuisine traditions.
2. Unique Flavors
The combination of feta cheese, eggs, and yogurt creates a deliciously tangy and rich filling. The flaky phyllo pastry adds a delightful crunch that makes every bite memorable.
3. Easy to Make
Using store-bought phyllo dough simplifies the process. We can whip up this savory pie quickly, making it great for busy days.
4. Cultural Experience
Making banitsa allows us to connect with Bulgarian culture. It is an integral part of celebrations, especially during Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Preparing it brings a piece of Bulgaria into our kitchen.
5. Family-Friendly
This dish appeals to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy its cheesy goodness, making it a hit at family gatherings.
6. Great for Sharing
Banitsa can be easily cut into slices, making it ideal for serving at parties or potlucks. We love sharing it with friends to spread the joy of this delightful dish.
This recipe not only nourishes but also brings happiness to our table.
What Makes This Recipe Special
We love Bulgarian Banitsa for its rich flavor and unique texture. This dish is all about the balance of crispy dough and creamy filling, making it a delightful treat.
The main ingredient is feta cheese, also known as sirene. This salty, tangy cheese adds a distinct taste that sets Banitsa apart from other pastries. We often use a mix of Bulgarian white cheese to enhance the flavor even more.
Spinach can be added to the filling for those who enjoy a touch of greens. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds color to the dish. The combination of cheese and spinach creates a satisfying bite.
The phyllo dough is critical in achieving that beloved crispy texture. We like to layer the dough carefully to ensure each bite is flakey and light. The process of rolling and filling each layer might seem intricate, but it’s what gives Banitsa its charm.
Serving warm is essential. The buttery aroma fills the kitchen and enhances our enjoyment of this dish. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or special occasions.
In short, the blend of feta, savory fillings, and crispy layers makes Bulgarian Banitsa a special recipe we cherish. It reflects traditions we’ve encountered in Bulgaria, creating a dish that brings joy to any meal.
Cooking Equipment Needed
To make delicious Bulgarian banitsa, we need some essential cooking equipment. Here’s a list of what we recommend:
- Baking Dish: A glass or metal baking dish works best. A 9-inch round pan is a good choice.
- Parchment Paper: We often line our baking pan with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Mixing Bowls: Have a couple of mixing bowls ready. We use them to combine ingredients like eggs, cheese, and yogurt.
- Whisk or Fork: A simple whisk or fork will help us beat the eggs and mix our filling well.
- Pastry Brush: This tool is great for spreading melted butter on the phyllo dough to keep it moist.
- Foil (optional): If the top of our banitsa browns too quickly, we can cover it with aluminum foil.
Additional Tips
- Phyllo Dough: It’s important to handle the phyllo dough with care. Keep it covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
- Baking Temperature: We preheat our oven to 350°F (180°C) for best results.
With this equipment, we can easily prepare our banitsa and enjoy a taste of Bulgaria right at home.
Cooking Instructions
To make Bulgarian Banitsa, we start by preparing the egg mixture.
Next, we prepare the phyllo dough.
- Butter the pan:
- Layering:
- Lay a sheet of phyllo dough in the pan. Brush it lightly with melted butter.
- Continue layering sheets, brushing each one with butter, until you have about 5 layers.
- Spread half of the egg mixture over the layered phyllo.
- Add another layer of phyllo sheets, brushing each with more butter. Then, top with the remaining egg mixture.
- Finish with more phyllo layers, using about 5 sheets. After the last layer, we brush the top with melted butter.
- Bake the banitsa:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Bake for about 30-40 minutes until it turns golden brown.
Once baked, let it cool slightly before slicing into squares. Enjoy your homemade banitsa!
Cooking Tips
When making Bulgarian banitsa, here are some tips to enhance the flavor and texture:
- Use High-Quality Yogurt: We recommend using Bulgarian or Greek yogurt for a rich taste. Adding a bit of yogurt can improve the moisture and flavor.
- Experiment with Variations: Banitsa can have many fillings. We suggest trying natural yogurt, dill, or even adding cooked spinach for a twist.
- Incorporate Baking Soda: Mixing a small amount of baking soda into your egg mixture can make your banitsa fluffier.
- Use Sunflower Oil: For a lighter texture, consider using sunflower oil instead of butter. It can also give a subtle flavor that works well.
- Serve with Ayran or Boza: These drinks pair wonderfully with banitsa. Ayran can be refreshing, while boza adds a unique sweetness.
- Grease Your Pan Well: To prevent sticking, make sure to generously grease your baking pan with butter or oil.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the banitsa while it bakes. It should be golden brown, which usually takes about 25-35 minutes at 350°F (180°C).
Ingredients For the Bulgarian Banitsa Recipe
Butter
Phyllo Dough
Eggs
Cheese
Yogurt
Baking Soda
Cooking Instructions For the Bulgarian Banitsa Recipe
Preparing the Cake Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch cake pan with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper. Lightly coat the parchment paper with another layer of cooking spray and set the pan aside.
Making the Cake Layers
In a food processor, blend walnuts and 1/3 cup of SPLENDA® Brown Sugar Blend until they form fine crumbs. Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the walnut-sugar mixture. Divide the batter evenly into four portions. Bake each layer for 12 to 15 minutes. Once done, carefully remove the layers from the pan and peel off the parchment paper. Allow them to cool to room temperature.
Preparing the Chocolate Ganache
While the cake layers cool, prepare the ganache. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the cocoa powder, whisking until fully combined and smooth.
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the egg yolks and 1/3 cup of SPLENDA® Brown Sugar Blend for 3 to 5 minutes until thick and frothy. With the mixer on low speed, slowly incorporate the cocoa-butter mixture. Gradually add the heavy cream, continuing to beat on low, until the ganache reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Let it cool completely.
Assembling the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread about 1/4 cup of ganache over it. Add another layer on top and spread another 1/4 cup of ganache. Repeat this process with the remaining layers, ensuring each is evenly coated. Cover the entire cake with the remaining ganache. Transfer the cake to the refrigerator, uncovered, and allow it to set for at least 1 hour before serving.
FAQ For the Bulgarian Banitsa Recipe
Question: What is the Bulgarian Banitsa recipe?
A: The Bulgarian Banitsa recipe is a traditional pastry made with layers of filo dough, filled with a mixture of eggs, yogurt, and feta cheese. It is often baked until golden and crispy and can be served as a breakfast, snack, or appetizer.
Question: How do you make the Bulgarian Banitsa recipe more flavorful?
A: To make the Bulgarian Banitsa recipe more flavorful, you can add herbs like dill or parsley to the filling. Some variations also include spinach or leeks, which add a fresh taste and enhance the overall flavor of the pastry.
Question: Can I use store-bought filo dough for the Bulgarian Banitsa recipe?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought filo dough for the Bulgarian Banitsa recipe. It’s a convenient option that saves time, and the result will still be delicious. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the filo dough package to avoid it drying out while working with it.
Question: How can I make a vegetarian version of the Bulgarian Banitsa recipe?
A: The Bulgarian Banitsa recipe is already vegetarian, as it’s typically made with eggs, yogurt, and cheese. To make it even heartier, you can add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or onions to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Question: How should I store leftovers from the Bulgarian Banitsa recipe?
A: Leftovers from the Bulgarian Banitsa recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave, although it’s best enjoyed fresh for the crispiest texture.
Bulgarian Banitsa Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cup butter melted, plus more for the baking dish
- 16 ounces Phyllo dough frozen, (1 package, about 16 sheets; aka 16 ounces total)
- 10 eggs
- 24 oz cheese Bulgarian white Sirene or any feta
- 3 cups yogurt Balkan-Style or any you like
- 1 tsp baking soda
Instructions
Preparing the Cake Pan
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch cake pan with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper. Lightly coat the parchment paper with another layer of cooking spray and set the pan aside.
Making the Cake Layers
- In a food processor, blend walnuts and 1/3 cup of SPLENDA® Brown Sugar Blend until they form fine crumbs. Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the walnut-sugar mixture. Divide the batter evenly into four portions. Bake each layer for 12 to 15 minutes. Once done, carefully remove the layers from the pan and peel off the parchment paper. Allow them to cool to room temperature.
Preparing the Chocolate Ganache
- While the cake layers cool, prepare the ganache. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the cocoa powder, whisking until fully combined and smooth.
- In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the egg yolks and 1/3 cup of SPLENDA® Brown Sugar Blend for 3 to 5 minutes until thick and frothy. With the mixer on low speed, slowly incorporate the cocoa-butter mixture. Gradually add the heavy cream, continuing to beat on low, until the ganache reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Let it cool completely.
Assembling the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread about 1/4 cup of ganache over it. Add another layer on top and spread another 1/4 cup of ganache. Repeat this process with the remaining layers, ensuring each is evenly coated. Cover the entire cake with the remaining ganache. Transfer the cake to the refrigerator, uncovered, and allow it to set for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutrition
1 comment
I made Bulgarian Banitsa, and it was delicious! The flaky pastry, filled with cheese and eggs, was golden and crispy. My guests were impressed by how light and flaky the pastry was. It was simple to prepare, and the result was perfect. I’ll definitely be making this again for breakfast or brunch!