Dive into the heart of Croatian cuisine with Strukli, a beloved comfort food that has been tantalizing taste buds for generations. These delightful dumplings, typically filled with cottage cheese and sour cream, are wrapped in thin dough and baked to golden perfection. Whether served as a savory dish with herbs and spices or as a sweet treat drizzled with honey, Strukli embodies the essence of Croatian culinary tradition. Join us on a gastronomic journey to savor the rich flavors and cultural heritage of this cherished delicacy.

Here's a traditional recipe for Croatian Strukli:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup water
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cottage cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or dill

For Serving:

• Melted butter
• Sour cream (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and a pinch of salt.

2- Add the egg and gradually pour in the water while mixing, until a dough forms.

3- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Make the Filling:

1- In another bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, sour cream, and eggs until well combined.

2- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any desired fresh herbs. Set aside.

Assemble the Strukli:

1- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.

3- Spread the cottage cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving about half an inch border around the edges.

4- Carefully roll the dough into a log, then slice it into individual pieces, about 1 to 2 inches thick.

Bake the Strukli:

1- Place the Strukli pieces in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each piece.

2- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the filling is set.

Serve:

1- Once baked, remove the Strukli from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter.

2- Serve hot, accompanied by a dollop of sour cream on top if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Croatian Strukli as a delicious savory pastry filled with creamy cottage cheese goodness!

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Croatian Strukli recipe per serving:

For the Dough (per serving):

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 1g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 60mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 31g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 0.5g
• Protein: 5g

benefits:

• Flour: Provides carbohydrates for energy and a small amount of protein for muscle repair and growth.
• Egg: Rich in protein and essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium.
• Water: Essential for hydration and helps bind the dough together.
• Salt: Adds flavor to the dough and helps regulate fluid balance in the body.

For the Filling (per serving):

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 7g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 12g

benefits:

• Cottage Cheese: High in protein and calcium, which are essential for muscle and bone health.
• Sour Cream: Contains calcium, vitamin A, and healthy fats. Provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the filling.
• Eggs: Excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin B12, riboflavin, and selenium.
• Salt and Pepper: Enhance the flavor of the filling and provide essential electrolytes.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands of ingredients and variations in preparation methods. Additionally, the serving size can also impact the nutritional content. Adjustments may be needed based on your dietary needs and preferences.