Idrijski Željnk with Horseradish and Cottage Cheese
Idrijski Željnk is a traditional Slovenian pastry originating from the Idrija region, typically filled with potatoes. This variation features a flavorful filling of cottage cheese and freshly grated horseradish, offering a unique tangy and slightly spicy taste.

🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g All-purpose flour
- 1 large Egg
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 150 ml Warm water
- 400 g Cottage cheese
- 3 tbsp Horseradish(freshly grated)
- 1 large Egg yolk
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
- 30 g Butter(melted, for brushing)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg, vegetable oil, and warm water. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.
💡 Tip: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. - 2
Let the dough rest: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
- 3
Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese, grated horseradish, egg yolk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
💡 Tip: Adjust horseradish to your preference for spiciness. - 4
Roll out the dough: Divide the dough into 2-3 portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion very thinly, about 1-2 mm thick.
💡 Tip: The thinner the dough, the more delicate the željnk will be. - 5
Assemble the željnk: Spread a thin layer of the cottage cheese and horseradish filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
💡 Tip: Do not overfill, as it can make assembly difficult and cooking uneven. - 6
Fold and shape: Carefully fold the dough in half, enclosing the filling. Press the edges firmly to seal. You can use a knife or a pastry wheel to create a decorative edge, or simply crimp with a fork.
💡 Tip: Ensure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. - 7
Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the assembled željnk on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with melted butter.
💡 Tip: Bake until golden brown and puffed. - 8
Serve: Let the Idrijski Željnk cool slightly before slicing and serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.
💡 Tip: Delicious as a snack, appetizer, or light meal.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer dough, you can substitute some of the water with milk.
- ✓Ensure the horseradish is freshly grated for the best flavor.
- ✓If you don't have cottage cheese, ricotta can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be milder.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped chives or parsley to the filling for extra freshness.
- For a sweeter version, reduce the horseradish and add a tablespoon of honey to the filling.