Plešivički Copanjek - Balkan Delight

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) 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 (150g) feta cheese, crumbled 1 cup (150g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup (120g) mozzarella cheese, shredded 1 cup (120g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil, for brushing 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil, for brushing

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 20g (12g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 26g (1g sugar)
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

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 to the flour mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. Knead the dough lightly until smooth, then shape it into a ball. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the feta cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, paprika, and black pepper until well combined.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick.
6. 6.
   Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. 7.
   Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Cut the log into 1-inch slices.
8. 8.
   Place the slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll. Brush the tops with olive oil.
9. 9.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crispy.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Feta cheese — Make sure to crumble the feta cheese into small pieces for even distribution throughout the rolls.
• Mozzarella cheese — Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melting and flavor.
• Garlic — Mince the garlic finely to ensure it is evenly distributed and doesn't overpower the other flavors.
• Olive oil — Use a good quality olive oil for brushing the rolls before baking to add a subtle richness to the crust.
• Parchment paper — Using parchment paper on the baking sheet will prevent the rolls from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the cheese mixture.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano or thyme, to customize the flavor.
• Serve the Plešivički Copanjek warm for the best taste and texture.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can brush the rolls with egg wash instead of olive oil before baking.
• These cheese rolls can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Serving advice

Serve Plešivički Copanjek as an appetizer or snack alongside a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. The rolls can also be enjoyed as a main course with a side of roasted vegetables or a mixed green salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Plešivički Copanjek rolls on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill, to add a pop of color. Serve them warm to showcase their flaky golden crust.