Potato and telemea pie

Potato and telemea pie – a traditional delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6

The potato and telemea pie is a delicious dish, perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. This simple yet rich-tasting recipe combines the flaky texture of the pastry with the creamy and flavorful filling of potatoes and telemea, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Let’s discover step by step how you can prepare this delicacy.

Ingredients:

- 500 g of pastry sheets (or puff pastry)
- 700 g of potatoes
- 200 g of telemea (preferably sheep's milk for a more intense flavor)
- 100 g of onion
- 2 eggs
- 100 ml of milk
- 50 ml of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (optional)
- 1 egg (for brushing)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
For a perfect result, start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into small cubes. This will not only reduce cooking time but also allow for even cooking. Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes or until soft, then drain and let them cool.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
In a pan, add the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until golden. This step will add a wonderful aroma to the pie. Once the onion is ready, add the boiled potatoes and mash them lightly with a fork. Add the crumbled telemea, beaten eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Mix the composition well until all ingredients are evenly integrated.

Step 3: Assembling the pie
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place a pastry sheet on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and brush it with a little oil. Add another sheet on top and repeat the process until you have 4-5 overlapping sheets. Spread the filling evenly over the sheets, leaving a small margin at the edges. Fold the edges of the pastry sheet over the filling, then add a few more sheets on top, making sure to brush each sheet with a little oil.

Step 4: Baking the pie
Beat the remaining egg and brush the pie's surface to achieve a golden and shiny crust. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until golden and crispy. It is essential to check the pie from time to time to avoid burning.

Step 5: Serving
Once the pie is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting. It is delicious both warm and cold, and can be served as an appetizer or main course. You can accompany it with a fresh green salad or plain yogurt.

Variation suggestion: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or cottage cheese, to add a personal touch. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for an extra boost of flavor and nutrients.

This potato and telemea pie is not just a simple recipe, but also one that pays tribute to Romanian culinary traditions. Once you master this recipe, you will want to make it again and again. Enjoy your meal!