Alivanca
We start by preparing the necessary ingredients to create a delicious alivanca, a traditional dish full of flavor and varied textures. In a generous bowl, we will mix the cow cheese with the sheep cheese, obtaining a creamy and aromatic composition. These two types of cheese complement each other perfectly, offering a rich taste. Then, we add the egg yolks, sour cream, and butter. Using a mixer or a fork, we will mix everything until we obtain a homogeneous and fluffy composition.
After we have prepared the cheese mixture, we come with the flour and cornmeal. These ingredients are essential to provide structure to the alivanca, so we will incorporate them carefully, using a wooden spoon. It is important to mix well so that all the ingredients blend harmoniously.
In another bowl, we take care of the egg whites. We add a pinch of salt and beat them until they become firm and fluffy. This step is crucial, as the beaten egg whites will give the alivanca an airy texture. With the help of a spatula, we will gently fold the egg whites into the cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate them, in order to maintain that fluffiness.
After we have obtained a homogeneous mixture, we turn our attention to the heat-resistant dish. We grease it with butter, ensuring that it is covered in a generous layer to prevent sticking. I used a dish with a diameter of 20 cm, but also a small one, perfect for an individual serving. We pour the mixture into the dish, leveling it with a spatula to achieve a smooth surface.
Now, our oven should be preheated to a moderate temperature. We place the dish in the oven, allowing it to bake until the alivanca develops a golden and appetizing crust on top. It is important not to open the oven door too often, as the heat may drop and we could compromise the texture.
When it is ready, we take the alivanca out of the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. This slight cooling allows the flavors to stabilize. It is served warm, accompanied by a spoonful of sour cream that will perfectly complement the rich taste of the cheeses. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 300 g cottage cheese, 100 g sheep cheese, 3 eggs, 50 g sour cream, 60 g cornmeal, 30 g white flour, 40 g soft butter + for greasing the dish, a pinch of salt
