Serbian Sweet Cheese and Potato Pie (Krompiruša sa Sirom)
A delightful savory pie with a sweet undertone, featuring a filling of grated potatoes, cheese (often feta or cottage cheese), and sometimes a touch of sugar or sweet spices, all encased in a flaky phyllo dough. It's a popular comfort food, especially for breakfast or as a snack.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 package (approx. 14-18 sheets) Phyllo dough sheets(thawed according to package directions)
- 1 kg Potatoes(peeled and finely grated)
- 300 g Feta cheese(crumbled)
- 200 g Cottage cheese or young cheese(optional, for creaminess)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped and sautéed until golden)
- 2 large Eggs(lightly beaten)
- 100 ml Vegetable oil(for brushing phyllo)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 1 tbsp Sugar(optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 50 ml Yogurt or milk(optional, for a softer filling)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a round baking pan (approx. 12-inch diameter).
💡 Tip: A well-greased pan prevents sticking and ensures a crispy bottom. - 2
In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, crumbled feta cheese, cottage cheese (if using), sautéed onions, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- 3
Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean work surface. Brush generously with vegetable oil. Place another sheet on top and brush with oil. Repeat this process until you have a stack of 4-5 oiled phyllo sheets.
💡 Tip: Work with phyllo dough quickly to prevent it from drying out. Keep unused sheets covered with a damp cloth. - 4
Spread about one-third of the potato and cheese filling in a line along the shorter edge of the oiled phyllo stack. Carefully roll the phyllo and filling together like a cigar.
- 5
Gently place the rolled phyllo log into the prepared baking pan, forming a spiral shape. Repeat steps 3 and 4 with the remaining phyllo sheets and filling, adding each new roll next to the previous one until the pan is filled.
💡 Tip: If the rolls are too long, you can cut them in half to fit the pan better. - 6
Brush the top of the entire pie generously with the remaining vegetable oil. If using yogurt or milk, you can mix it with the oil for brushing.
- 7
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
💡 Tip: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning. - 8
Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a creamier filling, add a bit more cottage cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
- ✓If you prefer a sweeter pie, increase the sugar slightly or add a pinch of cinnamon.
- ✓Ensure the potatoes are well-drained to avoid a soggy pie.
- ✓This pie is excellent served with a side of plain yogurt or sour cream.
🔄 Variations
- Add finely chopped fresh dill or parsley to the filling.
- Incorporate a small amount of cooked ground meat for a heartier version.
- Use a mix of cheeses like Gruyere or a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.