Gzik
Polish Farmer's Cheese Spread
A refreshing and simple Wielkopolska regional cheese spread, perfect as a light meal or appetizer. It features crumbled farmer's cheese mixed with sour cream, fresh chives, and crisp radishes, traditionally served with boiled potatoes.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300g Twaróg (Polish farmer's cheese)(Look for a firm, dry twaróg. If it's very moist, drain it slightly before use. Feta can be a substitute in a pinch, but the flavor will be different.)
- 100ml Sour cream(Full-fat sour cream will yield the creamiest texture.)
- 3 tbsp Fresh chives(Finely chopped. Use only the green parts for best flavor and appearance.)
- 4-5 medium Radishes(Washed, trimmed, and finely diced. Adjust quantity to your preference for crunch and peppery bite.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt(Or to taste. Start with less and add more as needed.)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground, or to taste.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the cheese: Place the twaróg in a medium bowl. Using a fork or your hands, crumble it into small, fine pieces. Aim for a texture that is mostly broken down but still has some slight texture, not completely smooth like a paste.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 2
Combine with sour cream: Add the sour cream to the crumbled twaróg. Mix thoroughly with a fork or spoon until the mixture is well combined and has a creamy, spreadable consistency. It should not be runny, but smooth and cohesive.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 3
Add aromatics and vegetables: Stir in the finely chopped chives and the finely diced radishes. Mix gently to distribute them evenly throughout the cheese spread.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Season to taste: Add the salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well and taste. Adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Chill and serve: For best flavor, let the gzik rest in the refrigerator for at least 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled, traditionally with boiled new potatoes, but it's also delicious with bread, crackers, or as a dip.
⏱️ 5 minutes (resting)
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Wielkopolska regional dish: Gzik is a staple in the Wielkopolska region of Poland.
- ✓Fresh ingredients are key: Use the freshest chives and radishes for the best flavor and crispness.
- ✓Summer delight: This dish is particularly refreshing and popular during the warmer months.
- ✓Texture is important: Avoid overmixing the cheese into a paste; a slight crumble adds to the appeal.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely diced cucumber for extra freshness.
- Incorporate fresh dill along with or instead of chives for a different herbal note.
- For a richer flavor, a small amount of finely chopped onion or shallot can be added.