Pestryanka (Belarusian Layered Casserole)
Pestryanka is a hearty and flavorful Belarusian layered casserole, often made with potatoes, meat, and sometimes vegetables, baked until golden and tender. It's a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes(peeled and thinly sliced)
- 500 g Ground Pork
- 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 200 ml Sour Cream
- 100 ml Milk
- 2 large Eggs
- 150 g Cheese(grated (e.g., Gouda or a semi-hard cheese))
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Dill(fresh, chopped (for garnish))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with vegetable oil.
- 2
In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add ground pork and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat.
- 3
In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, milk, and eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
- 4
Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Spread the cooked meat mixture evenly over the potatoes. Top with the remaining potato slices.
- 5
Pour the sour cream mixture evenly over the potatoes and meat. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top.
- 6
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- 7
Let the Pestryanka rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped dill.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly for consistent cooking.
- ✓Don't overcook the meat mixture; it will continue to cook in the oven.
- ✓Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or carrots.
🔄 Variations
- Use beef or a mix of pork and beef for the meat layer.
- Add a layer of finely chopped sauerkraut for a tangy twist.
- Incorporate other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips, thinly sliced.