Azerbaijani-inspired Spinach and Cheese Pie

Ingredients

While the original Rudarska greblica from Croatian cuisine is typically made with a mixture of potatoes, onions, and bacon, this Azerbaijani-inspired Spinach and Cheese Pie replaces those ingredients with spinach, cheese, and aromatic spices. The flavors are adapted to suit Azerbaijani cuisine, which is known for its use of herbs and spices. The result is a delicious pie that celebrates the flavors of Azerbaijan while still maintaining the essence of the original dish. We alse have the original recipe for Rudarska greblica, so you can check it out.

• 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
• 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 500g fresh spinach, washed and chopped 500g fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 200g feta cheese, crumbled 200g feta cheese, crumbled
• 100g mozzarella cheese, shredded 100g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 11g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. 6.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish and press it gently into the bottom and sides.
7. 7.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, crumbled feta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
8. 8.
   Pour the spinach and cheese mixture into the prepared pie crust and spread it evenly.
9. 9.
   Fold the excess dough over the filling, creating a rustic edge.
10. 10.
    Brush the exposed crust with the beaten egg wash.
11. 11.
    Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spinach — Make sure to wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Pat it dry before chopping.
• Feta cheese — If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less feta cheese or substitute it with a milder cheese like ricotta.
• Mozzarella cheese — For a stringy and gooey texture, use fresh mozzarella instead of pre-shredded mozzarella.

Tips & Tricks

• To save time, you can use store-bought pie crust instead of making the dough from scratch.
• Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor of the pie.
• Serve the pie warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
• This pie can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side dish with a salad or soup.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Serving advice

Serve the Azerbaijani Spinach and Cheese Pie as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad or a bowl of soup. It can also be enjoyed as a delicious appetizer or a side dish for a larger meal. Cut the pie into wedges and serve it warm or at room temperature.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Azerbaijani Spinach and Cheese Pie, sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, on top before serving. The vibrant green color of the pie will be beautifully complemented by the fresh herbs, adding a touch of elegance to the dish.