Welcome to the heart of Bulgarian culinary excellence! In this gastronomic adventure, we will explore the delightful world of Banitsa, a traditional Bulgarian pastry that embodies the rich flavors and cultural heritage of this enchanting Eastern European country. Banitsa is not just a dish; it's a symbol of warmth, hospitality, and the love Bulgarians have for their culinary traditions.

Originating from the Balkan region, Banitsa has stood the test of time, becoming a staple in Bulgarian households and an integral part of festive celebrations. This layered pastry, made with thin sheets of dough and a luscious filling, is a culinary masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of Bulgaria.

Join us as we unravel the secrets behind creating the perfect Banitsa – a dish that transcends its ingredients, inviting you to savor the essence of Bulgarian culture bite by delightful bite. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also transport you to the picturesque landscapes of Bulgaria, where Banitsa is more than just a recipe; it's a cultural heritage wrapped in layers of deliciousness.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (about 400g) of filo dough sheets
• 200g feta cheese, crumbled
• 200g Bulgarian white cheese (sirene), crumbled (substitute with feta if unavailable)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Salt to taste
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches) with butter or cooking spray.

Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese and Bulgarian white cheese. Mix well.

Whisk the Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until well-beaten. Add the yogurt, melted butter, vegetable oil, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly.

Combine the Filling and Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and gently fold until all ingredients are well combined. This will be your Banitsa filling.

Layering the Filo Dough: Lay one sheet of filo dough in the prepared baking dish, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. Brush the sheet lightly with the egg mixture. Continue layering sheets, brushing each with the egg mixture, until you have used about half of the filo dough.

Add the Filling: Spread the cheese and egg filling evenly over the layered filo dough.

Continue Layering: Continue layering the remaining filo dough sheets on top of the filling, brushing each sheet with the egg mixture. Tuck in the edges to encase the filling.

Finish and Garnish: Once all the filo dough is used, brush the top with the remaining egg mixture. Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds for a delightful finish.

Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.

Serve and Enjoy: Allow the Banitsa to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and savor the layers of flavor and cultural richness in every bite.

Enjoy your homemade Bulgarian Banitsa – a dish that encapsulates the essence of Bulgarian culinary heritage!

Nutritional Values

It's important to note that nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and variations of the ingredients used. The values provided below are approximate and based on standard nutritional information for common ingredients.

Filo Dough (400g):

• Calories: 1200
• Carbohydrates: 240g
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.
• Low in fat and contains minimal protein.
• Adds a crispy and flaky texture to the dish.

Feta Cheese (200g):

• Calories: 533
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 45g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Rich in protein, contributing to muscle health and satiety.
• Contains calcium for bone health.
• Provides healthy fats for energy.

Bulgarian White Cheese (200g):

• Calories: 400
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• High in protein, supporting muscle function and growth.
• A good source of calcium for bone health.
• Contributes to the savory flavor of the dish.

Large Eggs (4):

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium.
• Adds moisture and richness to the filling.

Plain Yogurt (1 cup):

• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Provides probiotics, promoting gut health.
• Rich in calcium for bone health.
• Adds a creamy texture to the dish.

Unsalted Butter, melted (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 814
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 92g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Supplies healthy fats for energy.
• Enhances the flavor and texture of the Banitsa.
• Adds richness to the overall dish.

Vegetable Oil (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 480
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 56g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Provides healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
• Contributes to the moistness and tenderness of the Banitsa.
• A source of vitamin E, an antioxidant.

Baking Soda (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 0
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Acts as a leavening agent, helping the Banitsa rise and become light.
• Aids in creating a tender texture in baked goods.

Salt (to taste):

• The nutritional content of salt is negligible in the context of daily recommended values.

benefits:

• Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Regulates the balance of flavors in the Banitsa.

Sesame Seeds or Poppy Seeds (optional):

• Calories: Varies based on the quantity used. Generally low in carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, but a good source of healthy fats.

benefits:

• Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Provides healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
• Enhances the visual appeal of the finished Banitsa.

These values are meant to give you a general idea, and it's recommended to check specific product labels for accurate nutritional information, especially if you have dietary restrictions or specific health goals.