Zelnik

Zelnik

Зелник (ZEL-nik)

Greens and Cheese Pie

Prep Time 45 min
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 322 kcal

Thin stretched dough filled with a savory mixture of leeks, spinach, and white cheese, baked into a golden layered pie.

Nutrition & Info

320 kcal per serving
Protein 12.0g
Carbs 28.0g
Fat 18.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ gluten ⚠ dairy

Equipment Needed

large work surface rolling pin baking tray

Presentation Guide

Vessel: baking tray

Garnishes: butter glaze

Accompaniments: yogurt, ayran

Instructions

  1. 1

    Make dough from flour, water, salt, and a splash of oil. Rest 30 min.

  2. 2

    Sauté leeks until soft. Mix with spinach, cheese, and eggs.

  3. 3

    Divide dough and stretch paper-thin on a floured cloth.

  4. 4

    Spread filling, roll up, and coil into a greased tray.

  5. 5

    Brush with oil and bake at 190°C for 35-40 min until crispy.

💡

Did You Know?

Macedonian grandmothers are famous for stretching zelnik dough so thin you can read a newspaper through it.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • large work surface
  • rolling pin
  • baking tray

Garnishing

butter glaze

Accompaniments

yogurt, ayran

The Story Behind Zelnik

Zelnik predates Ottoman influence and is considered one of the oldest Macedonian pastry dishes. Its name comes from "zelje" meaning greens, and it represents the deep Slavic culinary roots of Macedonian cuisine.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed breakfast or afternoon snack 📜 Origins: Medieval

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