Zapečeni štrukli with a Sammarinese twist

Ingredients

In this Sammarinese adaptation of Zapečeni štrukli, we incorporate a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top of the rolls, adding a distinct flavor and enhancing the richness of the dish. This addition complements the creamy cottage cheese filling and adds a touch of Sammarinese flair to the traditional Croatian recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Zapečeni štrukli, so you can check it out.

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 250ml (1 cup) water 250ml (1 cup) water
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 500g (2 cups) cottage cheese 500g (2 cups) cottage cheese
• 200ml (1 cup) sour cream 200ml (1 cup) sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• 100g (1 cup) Parmesan cheese, grated 100g (1 cup) Parmesan cheese, grated

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, water, and a pinch of salt. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, sour cream, eggs, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   Roll out the dough into a thin rectangle on a floured surface.
5. 5.
   Spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly over the dough.
6. 6.
   Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into individual rolls.
7. 7.
   Place the rolls in a baking dish and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
8. 8.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cottage cheese — Make sure to use a creamy and smooth cottage cheese for the filling.
• Parmesan cheese — Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the cottage cheese filling.
• Serve the rolls with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, brush the rolls with melted butter before baking.
• Experiment with different types of cheese for the filling, such as ricotta or feta, to add variety to the dish.
• Leftover rolls can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve the cheesy baked rolls warm as a main course or as an appetizer. They pair well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.

Presentation advice

Arrange the baked rolls on a platter, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The golden-brown color of the rolls and the melted cheese on top will make for an enticing presentation.