Romanian > Colțunași

Colțunași with Cheese and Bacon Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling water
- Rolling pin
- Pastry cutter or knife
- Large skillet

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs and warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth. Cover with a damp towel and let rest for 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut circles using a pastry cutter or knife.
5. Place a spoonful of the cheese and bacon mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over and press the edges to seal.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the colțunași and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cooked colțunași and toss to coat. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
5. Temperature:
Boiling water
Serving size:
Makes 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 420
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 550mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Substitute the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or cream cheese.
- Substitute the cheddar cheese with any other type of shredded cheese.
- Substitute the bacon with cooked and crumbled sausage or ham.

Variations:
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the cheese and bacon mixture for a healthier twist.
- Use a tomato-based sauce instead of butter for a different flavor profile.
- Make a sweet version by filling the colțunași with fruit preserves or Nutella.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is rolled out thinly to prevent the colțunași from being too doughy.
- Seal the edges of the colțunași well to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- Serve with a side of sour cream or marinara sauce for dipping.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftover colțunași in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the colțunași in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the colțunași on a platter and sprinkle with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add more flour.
- If the colțunași are falling apart during cooking, make sure the edges are sealed well.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the colțunași thoroughly to prevent any foodborne illnesses.

Food history:
Colțunași are a traditional Romanian dish, similar to Italian ravioli or Polish pierogi.

Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and salty with a hint of bacon flavor.

Serving suggestions:
Serve hot as a main dish or appetizer.

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Region: Romanian

Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Bacon, Rich, Comforting, Bacon-Y