Patatnik (Potato and Cheese Casserole)
A traditional Rhodopean dish, Patatnik is a savory baked casserole made primarily from grated potatoes, sirene (Bulgarian white brine cheese), eggs, and sometimes onions and herbs, offering a comforting and delicious taste of Bulgarian mountain cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes(peeled and finely grated)
- 200 g Sirene (Bulgarian white brine cheese)(crumbled)
- 3 large Eggs
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped (optional))
- 1 tbsp Mint(dried, or fresh chopped (optional))
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Butter or oil(for greasing the baking dish)
- 100 g Yogurt(for serving (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or oil.
- 2
Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This is crucial for a good texture.
💡 Tip: Discard the potato liquid or save it for another use. - 3
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed grated potatoes, crumbled sirene, eggs, chopped onion (if using), dried or fresh mint (if using), and black pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure the sirene is evenly distributed. - 4
Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
- 5
Transfer the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
💡 Tip: You can press down the top to create a flat surface. - 6
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set and cooked through.
💡 Tip: The center should not be wet or mushy. - 7
Let the patatnik cool slightly before cutting into squares or wedges. Serve warm, optionally with a dollop of yogurt.
💡 Tip: Patatnik is delicious on its own or as a side dish.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using a food processor with a grating attachment can speed up the potato preparation.
- ✓If you don't have sirene, feta cheese can be a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- ✓For a crispier crust, you can broil the patatnik for the last few minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of dried savory (chukber) for a more authentic Bulgarian flavor.
- Incorporate finely chopped leeks along with the onions.
- For a richer version, add a tablespoon of sour cream to the potato mixture.