Discover how to make Gibanica, a traditional Balkan savory pastry featuring layers of flaky dough, creamy cheese, and eggs. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the steps to create a delectable and satisfying dish that's perfect for any meal or occasion. Enjoy the rich flavors and perfect texture of this beloved comfort food!

Ingredients:

- 500g phyllo dough (store-bought or homemade)

- 300g feta cheese, crumbled

- 200g ricotta cheese

- 4 large eggs

- 1 cup plain yogurt

- 1/2 cup milk

- 1/2 cup melted butter

- 1 tsp baking powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

 - Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish (about 9x13 inches).

 - In a large bowl, mix together the crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, 2 of the eggs, yogurt, milk, and baking powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This will be your cheese filling.

 - Unroll the phyllo dough and place one sheet into the greased baking dish. Brush it lightly with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering each sheet, until you have 5-6 layers.

 - Spread a portion of the cheese filling evenly over the layered phyllo dough.

 - Add another layer of phyllo sheets over the cheese filling, buttering each sheet as you go. Continue this layering process until you use up the remaining phyllo dough.

 - Beat the remaining 2 eggs and pour them over the top layer of phyllo dough. Brush the surface with additional melted butter.

 - Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

 - Let the Gibanica cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade Gibanica, a delightful and savory pastry that's sure to impress!

Nutritional values

Phyllo Dough (500g)

 - Calories: 400 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 55g

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 18g

Benefits:

 - Provides a crispy, flaky texture to dishes.

 - Used as a base for various fillings and adds a layer of crunch.

Feta Cheese (300g)

 - Calories: 264 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

 - Protein: 14g

 - Fat: 21g

Benefits:

 - Adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture.

 - Provides protein, calcium, and vitamin B12.

 - Lower in fat compared to some other cheeses.

Ricotta Cheese (200g)

 - Calories: 174 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 3g

 - Protein: 11g

 - Fat: 13g

Benefits:

 - Adds a mild, creamy texture.

 - Rich in protein and calcium, and lower in fat compared to many other cheeses.

Large Eggs (4)

 - Calories: 70 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 5g

Benefits:

 - Provides high-quality protein and essential amino acids.

 - Rich in vitamins A, D, and B12, as well as minerals like selenium and choline.

Plain Yogurt (1 cup)

 - Calories: ~61 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: ~4g

 - Protein: ~3.5g

 - Fat: ~3g

Benefits:

 - Adds creaminess and tang.

 - Provides protein, calcium, and probiotics that support digestive health.

Milk (1/2 cup)

 - Calories: 42 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 5g

 - Protein: 3g

 - Fat: 1g

Benefits:

 - Adds moisture and richness.

 - Provides protein, calcium, and vitamins D and B12.

Melted Butter (1/2 cup)

 - Calories: 717 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 81g

Benefits:

 - Adds richness and flavor.

 - Provides fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Baking Powder (1 tsp)

 - Calories: 53 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 28g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Helps the dough rise and become fluffy.

 - Used as a leavening agent in baking.

Salt and Pepper (to taste)

 - Salt: Minimal calories, used for flavor enhancement.

 - Pepper: Minimal calories, adds flavor and a slight spiciness.

This recipe combines phyllo dough with a mix of cheeses, eggs, yogurt, and milk to create a rich and creamy filling. Phyllo dough provides a crispy texture, while feta and ricotta cheeses add creaminess and flavor. Eggs contribute protein and structure, and yogurt and milk enhance the texture and moisture of the filling. Melted butter adds richness, and baking powder helps achieve a light, fluffy result. Salt and pepper are used to adjust the seasoning.