Idrijski Želnik s Skuto (Idrija Cottage Cheese Rolls)
Idrijski Želnik s Skuto is a traditional Slovenian pastry from the Idrija region, featuring a delicate dough filled with a creamy cottage cheese mixture, often seasoned with herbs. These savory rolls are a beloved part of Slovenian culinary heritage.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g All-purpose flour(plus extra for dusting)
- 2 large Egg yolks
- 50 g Butter(melted)
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 100 ml Warm water(approximately)
- 400 g Cottage cheese(full-fat, drained)
- 1 large Egg(for the filling)
- 2 tbsp Sour cream
- 1 tbsp Fresh dill(chopped)
- 1 tbsp Fresh chives(chopped)
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 large Egg(for egg wash)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add egg yolks and melted butter. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
💡 Tip: The dough should be soft but not sticky. - 2
Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese, 1 egg, sour cream, dill, chives, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
💡 Tip: Ensure the cottage cheese is well-drained to avoid a watery filling. - 3
Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough very thinly, to about 1-2 mm thickness. Aim for a large rectangle.
💡 Tip: Work quickly to prevent the dough from drying out. - 4
Assemble the rolls: Spread the cottage cheese filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll up the dough from one long side, like a Swiss roll.
💡 Tip: Ensure the filling is spread evenly for consistent taste and texture. - 5
Cut and shape: Cut the rolled dough into individual rolls, about 2-3 cm thick. Gently press each roll to flatten slightly.
- 6
Bake: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the egg wash.
💡 Tip: Egg wash gives the rolls a golden, shiny finish. - 7
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
💡 Tip: Baking time may vary depending on oven.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a crispier texture, bake for a few extra minutes.
- ✓You can add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for extra aroma.
- ✓Ensure the dough is very thin for the best results.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of finely chopped onion to the filling.
- Use a mix of cottage cheese and ricotta for a different texture.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt.