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Macedonian Zelnik made Easy

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Recipe Information

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Video-Specific Recipe

Zelnik

Cultural Context

Zelnik is a traditional Macedonian pastry, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings. The dish showcases the region's love for savory pies filled with fresh greens and cheese, reflecting the agricultural heritage of Macedonia. Today, Zelnik is celebrated not only in homes but also in restaurants, where variations may include different fillings and spices, appealing to both local and international palates.

MacedonianMKmain
60 min
medium
8 servings
Servings4
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup olive oil
8 oz feta cheese
4 cups fresh spinach
1 medium onion
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley
1 cup yogurt
1 teaspoon baking powder
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Quantities are estimated based on standard recipes for your convenience. The actual ingredients used in this video are accurate.

feta cheese

🥗Healthier: ricotta

💰Cheaper: cottage cheese

Ricotta offers a lighter option while cottage cheese is more affordable.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil is healthier, while vegetable oil is less expensive.

spinach

🥗Healthier: kale

💰Cheaper: collard greens

Kale provides similar nutrients, while collard greens are often cheaper.

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is a healthier fat, while margarine is a budget-friendly alternative.

1

Mix flour, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl.

2

Add water and olive oil to the flour mixture, and knead until smooth.

3

Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

4

Sauté chopped onion in olive oil until translucent, about 5 minutes.

5

Add spinach to the onions and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.

6

Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then mix in feta cheese, egg, and parsley.

7

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

8

Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each into a thin circle.

9

Place a portion of the filling in the center of each circle.

10

Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.

11

Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

12

Place the Zelnik on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

13

Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.

Cooking Techniques

mixingkneadingsautéingbaking

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Allergens

glutendairyegg

Also Known As

Zelnik pieZelnik pastry

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