Discover the authentic Macedonian Pastrmajlija recipe, a savory flatbread topped with perfectly seasoned pork. This traditional Macedonian dish is a delicious blend of crispy, homemade flatbread and flavorful pork, seasoned with aromatic spices. Perfect for a hearty meal or a special occasion, learn how to make this delightful Macedonian treat with our step-by-step recipe.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

- 500g all-purpose flour

- 2 tsp instant yeast

- 1 tsp sugar

- 1 tsp salt

- 200ml warm water

- 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping:

- 300g pork (pork shoulder or loin), thinly sliced

- 2 tbsp paprika

- 1 tsp ground black pepper

- 1 tsp garlic powder

- 1 tsp onion powder

- 1 tsp dried oregano

- Salt to taste

- 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

  - In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.

  - Gradually add warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

  - Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

  - Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Topping:

  - While the dough is rising, combine the paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and salt in a small bowl.

  - Rub the seasoning mixture all over the thinly sliced pork.

Assemble the Pastrmajlija:

  - Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).

  - Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions.

  - Roll each portion into a flat rectangle or oval shape on a floured surface.

  - Place the rolled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  - Arrange the seasoned pork slices evenly over the surface of each flatbread.

Bake:

  - Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top of the pork and dough.

  - Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the flatbread is golden and crispy, and the pork is cooked through.

Serve:

  - Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing.

  - Serve warm, and enjoy your homemade Macedonian Pastrmajlija!

Nutritional Values

All-Purpose Flour (500g)

 - Calories: Approximately 1800

 - Carbohydrates: 400 g

 - Protein: 15 g

 - Fat: 5 g

Benefits: 

 - Energy Source: Provides carbohydrates that are a primary energy source.

 - Versatility: Forms the base for many types of baked goods.

Instant Yeast (2 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 20

 - Carbohydrates: 2 g

 - Protein: 2 g

Benefits: 

 - Leavening Agent: Helps the dough rise by producing carbon dioxide.

 - Nutrients: Contains B vitamins and some protein.

Sugar (1 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 16

 - Carbohydrates: 4 g

Benefits: 

 - Yeast Activation: Helps activate the yeast for dough rising.

 - Flavor: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.

Salt (1 tsp)

 - Calories: 0

 - Sodium: Approximately 2300 mg

Benefits: 

 - Flavor: Enhances the taste of the dough.

 - Gluten Development: Helps control the gluten development in the dough.

Warm Water (200 ml)

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: 

 - Hydration: Essential for hydrating the flour and activating the yeast.

 - Dough Consistency: Helps achieve the right consistency for the dough.

Olive Oil (2 tbsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 240

 - Fat: 27 g (mainly monounsaturated fats)

Benefits: 

 - Flavor: Adds richness and flavor to the dough.

 - Texture: Helps make the dough more pliable and tender.

Pork (300g, thinly sliced, pork shoulder or loin)

 - Calories: Approximately 750

 - Protein: 60 g

 - Fat: 50 g (varies by cut)

Benefits: 

 - Protein: Provides a high amount of protein essential for muscle repair and growth.

 - Nutrients: Contains vitamins and minerals like B vitamins and iron.

Paprika (2 tbsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 12

 - Carbohydrates: 3 g

 - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin A and small amounts of vitamin C.

Benefits: 

 - Antioxidants: Rich in antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress.

 - Flavor: Adds a mild, sweet, and smoky flavor to the dish.

Ground Black Pepper (1 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 6

 - Carbohydrates: 2 g

Benefits: 

 - Flavor: Adds a spicy kick to the topping.

 - Digestion: Contains piperine, which may aid digestion and enhance nutrient absorption.

Garlic Powder (1 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 8

 - Carbohydrates: 2 g

Benefits: 

 - Flavor: Adds a savory garlic flavor to the topping.

 - Health Benefits: Contains compounds with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Onion Powder (1 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 8

 - Carbohydrates: 2 g

Benefits: 

 - Flavor: Adds a subtle onion flavor to the topping.

 - Nutritional Value: Contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

Dried Oregano (1 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 5

 - Carbohydrates: 1 g

Benefits: 

 - Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that may help protect cells from damage.

 - Flavor: Adds a fragrant, herby flavor to the topping.

Salt (to taste)

 - Calories: 0

 - Sodium: Varies by amount used

Benefits: 

 - Flavor: Enhances the overall taste of the topping.

 - Flavor Balance: Helps balance other spices and ingredients.

Olive Oil (1 tbsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 120

 - Fat: 14 g (mainly monounsaturated fats)

Benefits: 

 - Flavor: Adds richness and enhances the flavor of the topping.

 - Cooking: Helps in cooking and crisping the pork.

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and nutritious dish, with each component contributing unique benefits and enhancing the overall taste.