Recipe

Creamy Orzo Kažerma with Mediterranean Flavors

Mediterranean Delight: Creamy Orzo Kažerma with a Twist

4.3 out of 5

Indulge in the flavors of Macedonian cuisine with this creamy and comforting Orzo Kažerma recipe. This dish combines the richness of kažerma, a traditional Macedonian cheese, with the delicate texture of orzo pasta, creating a mouthwatering Mediterranean delight.

Appetizer› Orzo kažerma

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Balkan cuisine› Macedonian cuisine

Preparation time

15 minutes

Cooking time

20 minutes

Total time

35 minutes

Yields

4 servings

Preparation difficulty

Easy

Suitable for

Vegetarian, Mediterranean, Gluten-free (if using gluten-free orzo pasta), Nut-free, Soy-free

Allergens

Dairy (kažerma cheese), Gluten (unless using gluten-free orzo pasta)

Not suitable for

Vegan, Dairy-free, Paleo, Keto, Low-carb

Ingredients

250g (8.8 oz) orzo pasta 250g (8.8 oz) orzo pasta
200g (7 oz) kažerma cheese, grated 200g (7 oz) kažerma cheese, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 14g
Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 5g
Protein: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1.
Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3.
Add the dried oregano and paprika to the skillet and stir for a minute to release their flavors.
4.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes.
5.
Reduce the heat to low and add the grated kažerma cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
6.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine with the cheese sauce.
7.
Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet and toss until it is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
8.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
10.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
11.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

Orzo pasta — Be careful not to overcook the orzo pasta as it can become mushy. Cook it until it is al dente to maintain its texture.
Kažerma cheese — Make sure to grate the kažerma cheese before adding it to the sauce. This will help it melt smoothly and evenly.

Tips & Tricks

For a touch of freshness, squeeze some lemon juice over the dish before serving.
Add a handful of cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of color and flavor.
Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy kick.
If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated the next day. Add a splash of cream or broth to revive the creaminess.

Serving advice

Serve the Creamy Orzo Kažerma as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad and crusty bread. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil leaves on top of the dish. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the pasta for a glossy finish.