Croatian Cheese Strukli
If you’re looking for a dish that captures the heart and soul of Croatian cuisine, look no further than Croatian Cheese Strukli. This comforting dish combines a rich, cheesy filling with a delicate, doughy exterior, making it a beloved staple in many Croatian households. Whether served as a main course or a delightful side, Croatian Cheese Strukli is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not just about the deliciousness; it’s also about the experience. The blend of creamy cottage cheese and tangy sour cream creates an irresistible filling, while the flaky dough offers the perfect contrast. With a hint of garlic and nutmeg, every bite is a delightful adventure for your taste buds. Plus, it’s a dish that brings people together, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
The Essentials
To make Croatian Cheese Strukli, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 1/4 cups Bakers Corner all-purpose flour
- 5 Goldhen large eggs, divided
- 3 1/2 tablespoons Countryside Creamery melted butter, divided
- 2/3 cup water
- 24 ounces Friendly Farms cottage cheese
- 1 1/4 cup Friendly Farms sour cream
- 10 ounces Specially Selected Aged Reserve white cheddar, shredded and divided
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon Stonemill garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/4 cups Countryside Creamery half-and-half
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment & Tools
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have these essential tools:
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
- Rolling pin – to roll out the dough.
- Baking dish – to bake the Croatian Cheese Strukli.
- Whisk – for beating the eggs and mixing fillings.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accuracy.
Croatian Cheese Strukli: From Prep to Plate
Creating Croatian Cheese Strukli is a rewarding process. Follow these steps for a perfect result:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/4 cups of Bakers Corner all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt. Make a well in the center, then crack in 2 of the Goldhen large eggs, add 3 tablespoons of melted Countryside Creamery butter, and pour in 2/3 cup of water. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In another bowl, combine 24 ounces of Friendly Farms cottage cheese, 1 1/4 cups of Friendly Farms sour cream, and 5 ounces of the shredded Specially Selected Aged Reserve white cheddar. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of Stonemill garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper, then mix until well combined.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
After the dough has rested, divide it into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion into a thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick. Repeat with the second portion of dough.
Step 4: Assemble the Strukli
Spread half of the cheese filling over one of the rolled-out doughs, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Repeat with the second portion of dough and remaining filling.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with some of the remaining melted butter. Place the rolled strukli seam-side down in the dish.
Step 6: Make the Cream Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of Countryside Creamery half-and-half with the remaining 1 egg. Pour this mixture over the assembled strukli in the baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded white cheddar.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before slicing.
Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas
This versatile dish can be enjoyed year-round. Here are some ideas for seasonal twists:
- Spring: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives to the filling for a vibrant flavor.
- Summer: Incorporate sautéed spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
- Fall: Mix in roasted pumpkin purée or butternut squash for a cozy autumn touch.
- Winter: Serve with a rich mushroom sauce or a hearty gravy for a warming meal.
Don’t Do This
To ensure your Croatian Cheese Strukli turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Don’t skip the resting time for the dough; it’s essential for the right texture.
- Don’t overstuff the strukli, as this can lead to bursting during baking.
- Don’t forget to grease your baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- Don’t rush the baking process; allow enough time for it to turn golden brown.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you have leftovers or want to make Croatian Cheese Strukli ahead of time, here’s how to store it:
Allow the strukli to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
You can also freeze the unbaked strukli. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese in Croatian Cheese Strukli?
Absolutely! While traditional strukli uses cottage cheese and a type of cheddar, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, like feta or mozzarella, to suit your taste.
Is Croatian Cheese Strukli difficult to make?
Not at all! While it may seem complex, the steps are straightforward, and the result is worth the effort. With a little practice, you’ll master it in no time.
Can I make Croatian Cheese Strukli vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat. Just ensure that all your ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, and you’re good to go!
What can I serve with Croatian Cheese Strukli?
Croatian Cheese Strukli pairs beautifully with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of tzatziki for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with These
To complement your Croatian Cheese Strukli, consider serving with:
- Instant Pot Ricotta Recipe
- Easy Yeast Rolls
- A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
Next Steps
Now that you have the recipe for Croatian Cheese Strukli, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is a wonderful way to explore Croatian flavors and share a piece of culinary tradition with those you love. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or reheating leftovers, each bite is a comforting reminder of the joy of home-cooked meals. Happy cooking!
Croatian Cheese Strukli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/4 cups of Bakers Corner all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt. Make a well in the center, then crack in 2 of the Goldhen large eggs, add 3 tablespoons of melted Countryside Creamery butter, and pour in 2/3 cup of water. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine 24 ounces of Friendly Farms cottage cheese, 1 1/4 cups of Friendly Farms sour cream, and 5 ounces of the shredded Specially Selected Aged Reserve white cheddar. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of Stonemill garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper, then mix until well combined.
- After the dough has rested, divide it into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion into a thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick. Repeat with the second portion of dough.
- Spread half of the cheese filling over one of the rolled-out doughs, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Repeat with the second portion of dough and remaining filling.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with some of the remaining melted butter. Place the rolled strukli seam-side down in the dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of Countryside Creamery half-and-half with the remaining 1 egg. Pour this mixture over the assembled strukli in the baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded white cheddar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
- Allow the strukli to cool completely before storing.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- You can freeze unbaked strukli for up to 2 months.
