Tvorozhnaya Zapekanka (Russian Baked Quark Casserole)

🧂 Ingredients

• 500 g Tvorog (quark or farmer's cheese)(Ensure the tvorog is relatively dry. If it's very wet, you can press it gently through a fine-mesh sieve or wrap it in cheesecloth and squeeze out excess moisture.)
• 3 large Eggs(Room temperature eggs incorporate better.)
• 100 g Granulated Sugar(Adjust to your sweetness preference. You can also use caster sugar for a finer texture.)
• 4 tbsp Semolina(This helps bind the casserole and gives it a tender texture. You can substitute with fine-ground cornmeal or even all-purpose flour if semolina is unavailable, though the texture will differ slightly.)
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (optional)(Adds a subtle aroma and flavor.)
• for greasing Butter or oil(To grease the baking dish.)
• for serving Sour cream(Traditional accompaniment.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a medium-sized baking dish (approximately 8x8 inches or a similar volume round dish) with butter or oil.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
2. 2

   In a large bowl, combine the tvorog, eggs, and granulated sugar. If using, add the vanilla extract. Whisk or beat with a fork until the mixture is relatively smooth and well combined. There may be small lumps of tvorog, which is acceptable.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
3. 3

   Add the semolina to the tvorog mixture. Stir well to ensure it's evenly distributed. Let the mixture rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the semolina to absorb moisture and swell, which will help create a tender texture in the baked casserole.

   ⏱️ 15 minutes
4. 4

   Pour the prepared mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes
5. 5

   Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The casserole should be set and slightly puffed.

   ⏱️ 40-50 minutes
6. 6

   Remove from the oven and let it cool in the dish for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set further.

   ⏱️ 15 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓This dish is often referred to as a 'Soviet cafeteria classic' due to its popularity in schools and canteens.
• ✓Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with a dollop of sour cream. Jam, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey are also delicious accompaniments.
• ✓A beloved childhood favorite for many, it's simple, wholesome, and satisfying.

🔄 Variations

• Add a handful of raisins (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes and drained) to the batter before baking.
• Incorporate fresh or frozen berries (like blueberries or raspberries) or small pieces of fruit (like diced apples or pears) into the mixture.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon or two of melted butter to the batter.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving