Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound of phyllo dough
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 pound of fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1/2 pound of Herzegovina squeaky cheese, grated
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup of milk
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Pastry brush
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Season the spinach mixture with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the grated Herzegovina squeaky cheese, beaten eggs, and milk.
6. Brush the bottom of the baking dish with melted butter.
7. Layer 4 sheets of phyllo dough on the bottom of the dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
8. Spread half of the spinach mixture on top of the phyllo dough.
9. Layer another 4 sheets of phyllo dough on top of the spinach mixture, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
10. Pour the cheese and egg mixture over the phyllo dough.
11. Layer another 4 sheets of phyllo dough on top of the cheese mixture, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
12. Spread the remaining spinach mixture on top of the phyllo dough.
13. Layer the remaining phyllo dough on top of the spinach mixture, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
14. Brush the top layer of phyllo dough with melted butter.
15. Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 450mg
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 11g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Feta cheese can be substituted for Herzegovina squeaky cheese.
- Swiss chard or kale can be substituted for spinach.
Variations:
- Add chopped cooked bacon or sausage to the spinach mixture for a meatier version.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the cheese mixture for added flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to brush each layer of phyllo dough with melted butter to ensure a crispy crust.
- Let the pie cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Storage instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place a slice of pie on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 30-45 seconds until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pie on a platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for garnish.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or dill
- Lemon wedges
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad of mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the phyllo dough tears, simply patch it with another piece of dough and brush with melted butter.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the spinach mixture until the spinach is wilted to ensure it is fully cooked.
Food history:
- Herzegovina squeaky cheese is a type of cheese that is popular in the Balkans and is known for its distinctive squeaky texture.
Flavor profiles:
- The pie has a savory and slightly tangy flavor from the Herzegovina squeaky cheese and a hint of nutmeg.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pie warm or at room temperature as a main dish or as a side dish.
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Region: Bosnian