Easter cheese pie

Savory cheese pasca is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and the scent of childhood, that brings a touch of magic to every festive meal. This delicacy combines the fluffy texture of the dough with a rich cheese filling, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to try something new, this savory cheese pasca recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 300 ml lukewarm milk
- 1 egg
- 500 g flour
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1 packet of dry yeast (preferably Dr. Oetker)

For the filling:
- 600 g burduf cheese (or well-drained cottage cheese)
- 2 eggs
- 1 egg (for brushing)

A brief history
Savory cheese pasca is a common dish in traditional cuisine, with deep roots in culinary history. This recipe has often been associated with Easter celebrations, as well as other festive moments, where joy and sharing were paramount. The fluffy dough combined with salty cheese has become a symbol of conviviality and culinary traditions passed down through generations.

Step by step for a perfect pasca

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, add the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients well. In another container, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a crucial step as it ensures the yeast is activated and the dough will be fluffy.

Add the milk with yeast and the egg to the flour mixture. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough seems too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as this will result in a dense pasca.

Step 2: Let the dough rise
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until it doubles in volume. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy texture.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the burduf cheese with the two eggs. Use a fork to mash the cheese until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. If you want a more intense flavor, add a bit of chopped fresh dill or a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper.

Step 4: Shaping the pasca
Once the dough has risen, divide it into three equal parts. Take one piece and roll it out on a floured surface to form the base of the pasca. Place some of the cheese filling on this base, leaving a little space at the edges.

From the other two pieces of dough, make three long rolls each, which you will braid. One braid will be placed around the edge of the tray, and the other will be used to form a cross on top of the filling. Between the cross and the filling, add the remaining cheese.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Let the pasca rise for another 15-20 minutes, then brush it with the beaten egg for a golden and appetizing crust. Bake the pasca for 40-50 minutes or until it becomes golden and, when tapped lightly, produces a hollow sound.

Step 6: Serving
After removing the pasca from the oven, let it cool slightly before cutting. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh green salad or a tomato sauce, for a pleasant contrast of flavors.

Useful tips
- Use high-quality cheese for a truly delicious filling. Burduf cheese has a strong flavor and creamy texture.
- If you want a pasca with a more complex taste, add some green or black olives to the filling.
- This recipe can also be adapted for a sweet dessert by using sweet cheese and sugar in the filling, for a sweet pasca variant.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use cottage cheese or ricotta, but make sure it is well-drained to avoid a too-wet filling.

2. How can I tell if the pasca is baked?
A pasca is ready when it is golden on the surface and, if you tap it lightly on the bottom, it produces a hollow sound.

3. Can the pasca be stored in the refrigerator?
Yes, the pasca can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it slightly before serving to restore its fluffy texture.

Nutritional benefits
This savory cheese pasca is rich in protein due to the cheese and eggs, providing an important source of calcium, essential for bone health. Whole flour can add fiber, thus contributing to digestive health.

In conclusion, savory cheese pasca is not just a delicious dish but also an excellent way to gather the family around the table. Experiment with flavors and ingredients, share the recipe with loved ones, and turn every meal into a celebration!

 Ingredients: Dough: 300 ml milk, 1 egg, 500 g flour, 2 teaspoons sugar, 1.5 teaspoons salt, 1 packet of Dr. Oetker yeast. Filling: 600 g of burduf cheese, 2 eggs and one more egg for brushing.