Javanese-inspired Gibanica: A Fusion of Flavors

Ingredients

In this Javanese-inspired version of Gibanica, we incorporate Javanese spices such as turmeric, coriander, and lemongrass to infuse the dish with the flavors of Javanese cuisine. Additionally, we use ingredients commonly found in Javanese cooking, such as spinach, to add a touch of freshness and vibrancy to the traditional Slovenian Gibanica. We alse have the original recipe for Prleška gibanica, so you can check it out.

• 10 sheets of filo dough 10 sheets of filo dough
• 500g (17.6 oz) cottage cheese 500g (17.6 oz) cottage cheese
• 200g (7 oz) spinach, blanched and chopped 200g (7 oz) spinach, blanched and chopped
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 stalk lemongrass, finely chopped 1 stalk lemongrass, finely chopped
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• 100g (3.5 oz) butter, melted 100g (3.5 oz) butter, melted

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 26g, 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, spinach, eggs, turmeric powder, ground coriander, lemongrass, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. 3.
   Grease a baking dish with melted butter.
4. 4.
   Place a sheet of filo dough in the baking dish, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. Brush the sheet with melted butter.
5. 5.
   Repeat the process with four more sheets of filo dough, brushing each layer with melted butter.
6. 6.
   Spread half of the cottage cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the filo dough.
7. 7.
   Layer another five sheets of filo dough, brushing each layer with melted butter.
8. 8.
   Spread the remaining cottage cheese and spinach mixture over the filo dough.
9. 9.
   Finish by layering the last five sheets of filo dough, brushing each layer with melted butter.
10. 10.
    Fold the overhanging edges of the filo dough over the top layer to seal the Gibanica.
11. 11.
    Brush the top layer with melted butter.
12. 12.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the Gibanica is golden brown and crispy.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Filo dough — Handle the filo dough gently to prevent tearing. Keep it covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.
• Cottage cheese — Use a fine-mesh strainer to drain any excess liquid from the cottage cheese before using it in the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the cottage cheese and spinach mixture.
• Serve the Javanese-inspired Gibanica warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
• If you can't find lemongrass, you can substitute it with a teaspoon of grated lemon zest for a similar citrusy aroma.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or ricotta, to add your own twist to the recipe.
• Leftover Gibanica can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Javanese-inspired Gibanica as a main dish accompanied by a fresh salad or as a delightful snack with a cup of hot tea.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, on top of the Gibanica before baking.