Zeljanica (Bosnian Spinach and Cheese Pie)
A beloved savory Bosnian pie featuring layers of delicate phyllo dough (yufka) filled with a mixture of fresh spinach, soft cow cheese, sour cream, and eggs. Baked until golden and flaky, it's often served with a side of yogurt or sour cream.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 package Phyllo dough (yufka)(thawed according to package directions)
- 500 g Fresh spinach(blanched and roughly chopped)
- 400 g Fresh cow cheese (or farmer's cheese)(crumbled)
- 150 ml Sour cream
- 3 large Eggs
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 100 g Butter(melted)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil(for brushing)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a round baking dish or pie pan.
💡 Tip: Ensure the pan is evenly greased to prevent sticking. - 2
In a large bowl, combine the blanched and chopped spinach, crumbled cheese, sour cream, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
💡 Tip: If using cheese preserved in brine, soak it first to reduce saltiness. - 3
Carefully unroll the phyllo dough. Keep the sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out. Lay one sheet of phyllo in the prepared baking dish, brushing it lightly with melted butter and a little olive oil.
💡 Tip: Work quickly with phyllo dough; it dries out fast. - 4
Continue layering the phyllo sheets, brushing each one with butter and oil, until you have used about half the package. Spread the spinach and cheese filling evenly over the layered phyllo.
💡 Tip: You can also cut the phyllo sheets to fit the pan if they are too large. - 5
Layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top of the filling, brushing each with butter and oil. Tuck the edges of the top layers down into the sides of the pan.
💡 Tip: Ensure the top layer is well-brushed with butter for a crispy finish. - 6
Score the top of the pie into serving portions. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
💡 Tip: Scoring before baking helps prevent the crust from cracking unevenly. - 7
Let the zeljanica cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or a side of plain yogurt.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If fresh spinach is unavailable, frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) can be used.
- ✓For a more traditional flavor, use a mix of feta and a soft, fresh Bosnian cheese if available.
- ✓The pie can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
🔄 Variations
- Add a handful of chopped leeks or green onions to the filling.
- Incorporate a small amount of cooked ground meat into the filling for a heartier version.
- Drizzle with a mixture of milk and egg before baking for an extra moist top.