Gibanica, also known as Serbian Cheese Pie, is a traditional dish from Serbia made with layers of phyllo pastry and a mix of cheese and eggs. This recipe will guide you through making a delicious Gibanica that is crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, Gibanica is a versatile dish that will impress your guests with its rich flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 package of phyllo pastry sheets (16 oz)
- 1/2 pound feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 pound cottage cheese
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup oil
- Salt to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with oil or butter.
- In a large bowl, mix the feta cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, sour cream, and oil. Add salt to taste and mix well.
- Layer 4 sheets of phyllo pastry in the bottom of the baking dish, brushing each sheet with oil.
- Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture over the phyllo pastry.
- Repeat the layering process with 4 more sheets of phyllo pastry and the cheese mixture. Continue until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of phyllo pastry on top.
- Brush the top layer of phyllo pastry with oil.
- Using a sharp knife, score the top layer of phyllo pastry into diamond or square shapes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the pie is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Slice and serve the Gibanica warm or at room temperature.
Interesting Facts
Gibanica is a popular dish in Serbia and is often served on special occasions and holidays.
The name 'gibanica' comes from the Serbian word 'gibati', which means 'to fold' or 'to move'. This refers to the folding technique used to create the layers of phyllo pastry in the pie.
In Serbia, gibanica is typically enjoyed with a glass of yogurt or a cup of strong coffee.
Although cheese is the most common filling for gibanica, other variations can include spinach, meat, or even sweet fillings like apple or cherry.