Savory Romanian Cheese Pie

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
• 1 cup (200g) urdă cheese, crumbled 1 cup (200g) urdă cheese, crumbled
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 11g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the urdă cheese, eggs, sour cream, chopped dill, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a thin circle.
6. 6.
   Spread the urdă cheese mixture evenly over half of the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. 7.
   Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing the edges together to seal.
8. 8.
   Transfer the pie to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
9. 9.
   Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Urdă cheese — If urdă cheese is not available, you can substitute it with feta cheese or cottage cheese for a similar texture and taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra flaky crust, make sure the butter is cold and work quickly to prevent it from melting into the dough.
• Adding a pinch of nutmeg or paprika to the filling can add a subtle depth of flavor.
• Serve the Plăcintă cu urdă warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or chives to customize the flavor of the pie.

Serving advice

Serve the Plăcintă cu urdă as a main dish accompanied by a fresh green salad or as a delightful appetizer for a gathering. Cut it into wedges and enjoy!

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh dill or parsley on top of the pie before serving. The golden-brown crust and creamy filling will be visually appealing.