Discover the authentic flavors of Balkan cuisine with our Pita od Kisele Kisele recipe, a savory pie filled with sour cabbage and tender meat. This traditional dish combines rich ingredients to create a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Follow our step-by-step guide to make this delicious savory pie at home.

Ingredients:

- 500g sour cabbage (kisela kupus), finely chopped

- 300g ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2 garlic cloves, minced

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 200ml sour cream (optional)

- 500g phyllo dough (or homemade pastry dough)

- 50g butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:

  - Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.

  - Add the ground meat to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.

  - Stir in the chopped sour cabbage and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

  - Add paprika, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

Assemble the Pie:

  - Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

  - Grease a baking dish with some melted butter.

  - If using phyllo dough, layer several sheets in the dish, brushing each with melted butter. Ensure the edges hang over the sides of the dish.

  - Spread half of the sour cabbage and meat mixture over the dough.

  - If desired, add a layer of sour cream on top of the filling for extra richness.

  - Place another layer of phyllo dough on top, brushing each sheet with butter.

  - Add the remaining filling, followed by more layers of phyllo dough, brushing with butter between each layer.

  - Fold the overhanging dough over the top of the pie, brushing with the remaining butter.

Bake:

  - Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

  - Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes:

- For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or potatoes.

- Serve this savory pie with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.

Enjoy your homemade Pita od Kisele Kisele!

Nutritional Values:

Sour Cabbage (Kisela Kupus):

 - Calories: 15  

 - Protein: 1g  

 - Carbohydrates: 3g  

 - Fiber: 2g  

 - Fat: 0g  

Benefits:  

 - Rich in Vitamin C, boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin.  

 - Contains probiotics from fermentation, supporting gut health and digestion.  

 - Offers antioxidants that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.  

Ground Meat (Beef, Pork, or a Mix)

 - Calories: 250  

 - Protein: 26g  

 - Carbohydrates: 0g  

 - Fat: 20g (varies by fat content)  

 - Iron: 2.6mg  

Benefits:  

 - High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.  

 - Rich in iron, essential for healthy blood and energy levels.  

 - Contains B vitamins important for metabolism and overall health.  

Onion

 - Calories: 40  

 - Protein: 1g  

 - Carbohydrates: 9g  

 - Fiber: 2g  

 - Fat: 0g  

Benefits:  

 - Contains antioxidants like quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory properties.  

 - Supports heart health by helping lower cholesterol levels.  

 - Boosts immunity with its vitamins and minerals.  

Garlic   

 - Calories: 149  

 - Protein: 6g  

 - Carbohydrates: 33g  

 - Fiber: 2g  

 - Fat: 0.5g  

Benefits:  

 - Has antibacterial and antiviral properties, supporting immune function.  

 - Helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, benefiting heart health.  

 - Contains compounds that reduce inflammation.  

Vegetable Oil 

 - Calories: 884  

 - Protein: 0g  

 - Carbohydrates: 0g  

 - Fat: 100g  

Benefits:  

 - Provides essential fatty acids for brain health and energy.  

 - Contains vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant protecting cells from damage.  

Paprika 

 - Calories: 282  

 - Protein: 14g  

 - Carbohydrates: 54g  

 - Fiber: 14g  

 - Fat: 12g  

Benefits:  

 - Rich in antioxidants like capsaicin and vitamin C, helping fight oxidative stress.  

 - May boost metabolism and aid in weight management.  

Tomato Paste   

 - Calories: 82  

 - Protein: 4g  

 - Carbohydrates: 18g  

 - Fiber: 2g  

 - Fat: 0.4g  

Benefits:  

 - Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced cancer risk.  

 - Helps lower cholesterol levels and improve heart function.  

Sour Cream  

 - Calories: 193  

 - Protein: 2g  

 - Carbohydrates: 4g  

 - Fat: 20g  

Benefits:  

 - Provides calcium, supporting bone health.  

 - Rich in vitamin A, which promotes healthy vision and immune function.  

Phyllo Dough 

 - Calories: 320  

 - Protein: 7g  

 - Carbohydrates: 66g  

 - Fiber: 2g  

 - Fat: 6g  

Benefits:  

 - Lower in fat compared to other types of pastries.  

 - Versatile for various dishes.  

Butter  

 - Calories: 717  

 - Protein: 1g  

 - Carbohydrates: 0.1g  

 - Fat: 81g  

Benefits:  

 - Rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, supporting different body functions.  

 - Provides healthy fats essential for energy and cell function.  

Including these ingredients in your Pita od Kisele Kisele not only enhances its flavor but also provides a range of nutritional benefits.