Croatian Cheese and Spinach Štrukli

Ingredients

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 2 cups (500g) cottage cheese 2 cups (500g) cottage cheese
• 2 cups (200g) fresh spinach, blanched and chopped 2 cups (200g) fresh spinach, blanched and chopped
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 garlic cloves, minced
• For serving: For serving:
• Melted butter or sour cream Melted butter or sour cream

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the dough. Make a well in the center and add the eggs and water. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, combine the cottage cheese, chopped spinach, eggs, sour cream, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and minced garlic. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. 5.
   Spread the cheese and spinach filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. 6.
   Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from one of the longer sides. Seal the edges by pinching them together.
7. 7.
   Cut the Štrukli log into individual pieces, about 2 inches wide.
8. 8.
   Place the Štrukli pieces in a greased baking dish, seam side down.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the Štrukli are golden brown.
10. 10.
    Serve the Cheese and Spinach Štrukli warm, drizzled with melted butter or sour cream.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spinach — Make sure to blanch the spinach before chopping it for the filling. This helps retain its vibrant green color and removes any bitterness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add grated Parmesan or Gruyere cheese to the filling mixture.
• If you prefer a crispier crust, brush the Štrukli with beaten egg before baking.
• Leftover Štrukli can be reheated in the oven or enjoyed cold as a delicious snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Cheese and Spinach Štrukli as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad. It can also be served as an appetizer or side dish for a larger meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Štrukli pieces on a platter, drizzle with melted butter or sour cream, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill. The golden-brown crust and creamy filling will make for an enticing presentation.