Presnac - Slovenian Cheese and Walnut Strudel

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (125g) whole wheat flour 1 cup (125g) whole wheat flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) cottage cheese or ricotta cheese 1 pound (450g) cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
• 1 cup (100g) walnuts, finely chopped 1 cup (100g) walnuts, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 15g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 32g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the cottage cheese or ricotta cheese, chopped walnuts, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, nutmeg, and paprika until well combined.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out one portion on a lightly floured surface into a thin rectangle.
5. 5.
   Spread half of the cheese and walnut filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough into a log, tucking in the sides as you go. Place the rolled Presnac onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. 6.
   Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
7. 7.
   Brush the tops of the Presnac with the beaten egg wash.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the strudels are golden brown and crispy.
9. 9.
   Allow the Presnac to cool slightly before slicing into thick slices and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cheese — If cottage cheese is not available, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese or a combination of cream cheese and farmer's cheese.
• Walnuts — Toasting the walnuts before chopping them will enhance their flavor and add a delightful aroma to the Presnac.

Tips & Tricks

• For a sweeter variation, you can add a tablespoon of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cheese and walnut filling.
• Serve Presnac warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
• Leftover Presnac can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Presnac is best enjoyed as a main course or as a delightful addition to a brunch spread. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of Presnac, dust the top of the strudel with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving. This adds a touch of elegance and contrasts beautifully with the golden-brown crust.