Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie Recipe: During my unforgettable trip to Bosnia, I discovered the rich culinary tradition of Bosnian Pita, a delightful phyllo pie filled with a variety of ingredients. I attended a local cooking class where I learned how to make this beloved dish from scratch. The experience opened my eyes to the incredible layers of flavor and texture that make this pie so special.
This Pita Phyllo Pie recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly versatile. It allows for a range of fillings that cater to any taste.
As I rolled out the delicate sheets of phyllo dough, I felt connected to the generations of cooks who have perfected this dish. Each layer adds a flaky, golden crunch that pairs beautifully with savory fillings like meat, cheese, or spinach. Sharing a slice of warm Bosnian Pita with friends and family is a true treat, and it brings a bit of Bosnia into my home.
With its rich history and flavorful combinations, this recipe is sure to impress. Whether you are entertaining guests or just craving a comforting meal, a Pita Phyllo Pie recipe is the perfect choice.
Why You’ll Love This Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie Recipe
I enjoy this Pita Phyllo Pie recipe because it is a perfect comfort food. The layers of flaky pastry combined with savory fillings make it satisfying.
The recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it great for anyone. I love that it works well for busy days when I want something delicious without too much fuss.
This dish is incredibly versatile. I can fill it with cheese, spinach, or even meat based on my preferences. It pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, adding a healthy touch to my meal.
The textures are amazing too. The crispy outer layer contrasts nicely with the soft filling inside. Each bite is a delight.
Another reason I appreciate this recipe is that it’s a part of Bosnian food culture. Making it connects me to a rich culinary tradition. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends and family with something new.
Every time I serve it, I get compliments. The taste is unique and comforting, making it a favorite at my table.
What Makes This Recipe Special
I find the Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie unique for several reasons.
1. Rich Tradition
This dish is a staple in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It connects me to the culture and history of the region. Each bite reflects generations of culinary practice.
2. Versatile Fillings
The fillings can vary greatly. I can use cheese, meat, or even vegetables like spinach or potatoes. This flexibility allows me to make it suit different tastes or dietary needs.
3. Flaky Texture
Using phyllo dough gives the pie a delightful flaky texture. When baked, the layers become light and crispy, creating a wonderful contrast with the savory filling.
4. Perfect for Sharing
Bosnian Pita is great for gatherings. I often serve it at family meals or celebrations. It’s easy to cut into portions, making it perfect for sharing.
5. Simple Ingredients
It primarily uses basic ingredients—flour, water, and salt. Despite its simplicity, the flavors meld together beautifully.
I appreciate how this traditional Bosnian dish can be both comforting and impressive. Each recipe can be slightly different, but they all carry the same essence.
Cooking Equipment Needed For the Pita Phyllo Pie Recipe
To make Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie, having the right tools is important. Here is a list of what I recommend:
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish works well. This size allows for layering the phyllo and filling evenly.
- Rolling Pin: A rolling pin helps to stretch the phyllo dough if needed. It ensures an even thickness for a better texture.
- Kitchen Towels: I use clean kitchen towels to cover the phyllo sheets. This keeps them moist while preparing the pie, preventing them from drying out.
- Mixing Bowls: I like to have a few bowls for mixing fillings. One for meat, another for cheese, and so on.
- Brush: A pastry brush is handy for applying butter or oil between the layers of dough.
- Sharp Knife: This is useful for cutting the pie into pieces before baking.
Having these tools ready can make the cooking process smoother. Each item plays a role in creating the perfect Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie.
Essential Ingredients List
To make a delicious Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie recipe, I use a variety of ingredients that contribute to its rich flavors and textures. Here’s what I include:
- Phyllo dough: This is the base of the pie. I often use store-bought for convenience, but homemade is an option.
- Ground beef: This is a common filling, but I may also use chopped mushrooms or cabbage for a vegetarian twist.
- Cheese: Feta is my favorite, but I also mix in cottage cheese or ricotta for added creaminess.
- Onion: I sauté chopped onions to enhance the filling’s flavor.
- Potatoes: Sometimes, I add grated potatoes for a heartier texture.
For moisture and richness, I use:
- Melted butter: This helps to crisp the phyllo layers.
- Yogurt or sour cream: Either can be served on the side or blended into the filling for creaminess.
- Vegetable oil: I use this for greasing the pan or drizzling between layers.
Finally, I add seasonings like salt, pepper, and sometimes a bit of ajvar for a kick.
These ingredients create a flaky, savory pie that I love sharing with family and friends.
Cooking Instructions
To make Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie recipes, I start by preparing the phyllo dough. If I prefer, I can buy pre-made dough from the store. Layering the dough is key for a flaky result.
Ingredients:
- Phyllo dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Spinach
- Cheese (like feta)
- Butter (for brushing)
First, I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Next, I take a clean surface and lay out a sheet of phyllo dough. I brush it lightly with melted butter. Then, I add another sheet on top and repeat this for several layers.
Once I have a solid base, I mix the spinach and cheese in a bowl. I spread this filling evenly over the dough.
Now, I can roll the dough tightly into a log or fold it like a square. Placing it in a greased baking dish is important. I repeat the process until all filling is used.
After that, I brush the top of the pie with more melted butter. It helps create a golden and crispy finish during baking.
I bake it in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. I keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. The pie should look golden brown and flaky when done.
Finally, I let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delicious Bosnian pita, which is also known as pita sirnica!
When making Pita Phyllo Pie recipes, there are a few tips that can help ensure great results.
Use Fresh Ingredients:
Fresh spinach and cheese will make a big difference in taste. Avoid wilted vegetables and opt for quality cheese.
Work with Phyllo Dough:
If using store-bought phyllo dough, keep it covered while working. This prevents it from drying out. I recommend layering several sheets for a sturdier crust.
Layering:
Be sure to layer the dough in a way that it covers the filling completely. This helps with even cooking and provides a nice flaky top.
Baking Time:
Bake the pita until golden brown. Each oven is different, so keep an eye on it after the first 30 minutes. A baking time of around 45 minutes usually works well.
Reheating:
To reheat leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pita on a baking sheet and cover it lightly with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 15–20 minutes.
Storing Leftovers:
Store the pita in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If I have more, I like to freeze portions as well. Just wrap it tightly and use it within two months.
Ingredients For the Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie Recipe
Phyllo Pastry Sheets
Fresh Spinach
Egg
Sour Cream,
Feta Cheese
Cheddar Cheese
Salt
Milk
Yogurt
Olive Oil
Cooking Instructions For the Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie Recipe
Prepare the Spinach Filling
Preheat oven to 350°F. Wash, drain, and chop spinach. Mix with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to remove excess water. Drain by squeezing or using a salad spinner. Transfer to a new bowl and mix in egg, sour cream, feta, and cheddar cheese.
Assemble the Pie
Grease a 9″x13″ baking pan. Lay out phyllo dough sheets on a dry surface, keeping them covered to prevent drying. Place a sheet in the pan, trimming excess, and brush with olive oil. Repeat for 6-7 layers. Spread a thin layer of filling and continue layering until the pan is full, finishing with phyllo on top.
Bake and Serve
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes until golden and flaky. Pour a mixture of ¼ cup sour cream and ⅛ cup milk over the top and bake for another 15 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature, traditionally paired with a yogurt-milk drink.
Frequently Asked Questions For the Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie Recipe
What are the steps to make a classic Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie recipe?
To make a classic Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie recipe, I start by preparing the filling. I mix cottage cheese and mozzarella with melted butter and seasonings. Then, I layer phyllo dough in a greased pan, add the filling, and repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of dough. Finally, I bake it until golden and flaky.
Can you provide a simple recipe for Pita Phyllo Pie recipe with potatoes?
For a potato-based Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie recipe, I peel and boil potatoes, then mash them with some salt and pepper. I layer phyllo dough in a pan, spread the potato mixture evenly, and add more layers of dough on top. After baking until crispy, it’s ready to serve.
How do you prepare the phyllo dough for a traditional Bosnian pita burek?
When preparing phyllo dough for burek, I handle it gently as it is delicate. I thaw it completely and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. This keeps the dough flexible for easy layering around the filling.
What are the ingredients needed for a basic Pita Phyllo Pie recipe?
The basic ingredients for a Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie recipe include phyllo dough, cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, melted butter, and seasoning like salt and pepper. Depending on the recipe, I might also add other fillings like spinach or potatoes.
What is the technique for assembling and baking Bosnian pita bread?
Assembling a Bosnian involves layering phyllo dough, brushing each layer with melted butter for crispiness. I add the filling evenly, then cover it with more dough. I bake it at a high temperature until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Could you explain the process for creating a Pita Phyllo Pie recipe?
To create my own Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie recipes, I start by mixing fresh cottage cheese with mozzarella and seasoning. Then, layer phyllo dough in a baking tray, adding the cheese mixture between layers. After layering, bake it until it puffs and turns golden, giving it a lovely, flaky texture.
Easy Bosnian Pita Phyllo Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pkg Phyllo Pastry Sheets thawed
- 16 oz Spinach washed
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup Sour Cream (can use low fat)
- 1/2 lb Feta Cheese crumbled
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 cup Low-fat Milk
- 1 cup Low-fat Yogurt plain
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil
Instructions
Prepare the Spinach Filling
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Wash, drain, and chop spinach. Mix with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to remove excess water. Drain by squeezing or using a salad spinner. Transfer to a new bowl and mix in egg, sour cream, feta, and cheddar cheese.
Assemble the Pie
- Grease a 9"x13" baking pan. Lay out phyllo dough sheets on a dry surface, keeping them covered to prevent drying. Place a sheet in the pan, trimming excess, and brush with olive oil. Repeat for 6-7 layers. Spread a thin layer of filling and continue layering until the pan is full, finishing with phyllo on top.
Bake and Serve
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes until golden and flaky. Pour a mixture of ¼ cup sour cream and ⅛ cup milk over the top and bake for another 15 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature, traditionally paired with a yogurt-milk drink.
Nutrition
1 comment
This phyllo pie is amazing! The layers of thin, crispy pastry combined with the savory filling create the perfect texture and taste. I love how versatile it is—you can switch up the filling based on what you have. I’ll be making this again because it’s great for both meals and snacks!