Oblong pie (created)

Dolongaci Cheese Pie - A Delightful Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

The history of dolongaci pie, a dish that brings smiles to the faces of those who taste it, is rich with culinary traditions. This recipe, with deep roots in gastronomic culture, reflects the simplicity and joy of home cooking. It is said that each family has its own variations, but today I will guide you to achieve a delicious pie with flavorful cheese that is just as good warm as it is cold.

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 200 ml lukewarm water
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:
- 400 g telemea cheese (preferably goat or cow, to taste)
- 3 eggs
- 500 ml milk
- Vanilla sugar (optional, for a sweet taste)

Preparing the Dough:

1. Mixing: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt. Gradually add the lukewarm water and oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a homogeneous dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

2. Kneading: Place the dough on a clean surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. A useful trick is to oil your hands slightly to prevent the dough from sticking.

3. Resting: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 20 minutes at room temperature. This will allow the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Preparing the Filling:

4. Cheese: While the dough rests, grate the telemea cheese into a bowl to make it easier to distribute over the sheet. If the cheese is too salty, you can soak it in cold water for about 30 minutes, then drain well.

5. Egg mixture: In another bowl, beat the 3 eggs with the milk. This mixture will give the pie a creamy texture, making it even more delicious. If you want a sweet note, you can add a little vanilla sugar to the egg mixture.

Forming the Pie:

6. Rolling out the Dough: Sprinkle flour on the table and roll out the dough into a thin sheet, similar to noodle sheets. Make sure the sheet is large enough to cover the baking tray.

7. Adding the Cheese: Spread the grated cheese evenly over the entire surface of the dough sheet.

8. Folding the Dough: Fold the sheet of dough so that it fits into the baking tray. You can roll it or fold it, being careful not to tear it.

9. Adding the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg and milk mixture over the pie. It will seep in and make the pie moist and flavorful.

Baking the Pie:

10. Preheating the Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat).

11. Baking: Place the tray in the oven and bake the pie for about 35-40 minutes, or until it becomes golden and firm to the touch. You can check the consistency with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.

Serving the Pie:

Dolongaci pie can be served both warm and cold. Personally, I prefer it warm, alongside a fresh salad or creamy yogurt that contrasts with the pie's crunchy texture. You can sprinkle vanilla sugar on top for an extra burst of flavor if you choose a sweeter version.

Practical Tips:

- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or ricotta, for interesting variations.
- Dough: If you don't have time to make the dough from scratch, you can use store-bought pastry sheets.
- Freezing: You can freeze the pie before baking. Thaw it and bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use other types of filling?
Yes, you can replace the cheese with spinach or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

- What drink pairs well with dolongaci pie?
A fresh lemonade or herbal tea are excellent choices to accompany this dish.

- What are the nutritional benefits of this pie?
Telemea cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, while eggs contribute essential nutrients such as vitamin D and B12.

In conclusion, dolongaci pie is a versatile, tasty, and simple dish to make, perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, each bite will bring you unmistakable joy. So put on your apron and prepare this delicacy that will delight not only your taste buds but also your soul!