Rustic Pie, recipe from Lenuta

Lenuta's Country Pie: A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Welcome to a world full of flavors and memories! Today, I will share with you the recipe for Lenuta's country pie, a traditional recipe rich in taste, blending the simple flavors of childhood with the richness of natural ingredients. This pie is perfect for those moments when you want to bring a touch of warmth and comfort to your table.

A little about the history of the recipe

The country pie is found in many households, often prepared by grandmothers and mothers who wish to bring a bit of the past's traditions into the present. Each family has its own version, adapted to their tastes and available ingredients. This specific recipe from Lenuta is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special.

Essential ingredients

- 6 eggs
- 2 cups of sour milk (or yogurt)
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 cup of oil
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 2 teaspoons of lemon juice
- 400 g cottage cheese
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- a few drops of rum essence
- 1 tablespoon of grated orange peel
- 100 g raisins
- salt (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar (for decoration)
- 100 g margarine (for greasing the pan)
- 200 g honey

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, crack the 6 eggs and beat them well with a whisk or mixer. Add the 4 tablespoons of sugar and a pinch of salt. Mix until the composition becomes frothy. Then, gradually incorporate the sour milk (or yogurt), stirring continuously.

2. Adding dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and lemon juice. This step is essential to ensure a fluffy texture for the pie. Begin to add the flour mixture to the egg composition, mixing carefully to avoid lumps.

3. Oil: While kneading the dough, gradually pour in the oil. This will help achieve an elastic consistency, similar to dough. Knead until the dough becomes homogeneous and no longer sticks to your hands.

4. Preparing the filling: In another bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the 2 eggs, a pinch of salt, vanilla, rum essence, grated orange peel, and raisins. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous paste. The raisins add a sweet note and an interesting texture, while the orange peel will provide an irresistible aroma.

5. Assembling the pie: Grease a pan with margarine and sprinkle a little flour to prevent sticking. Pour half of the dough into the pan, leveling it evenly. Then, add spoonfuls of the cheese filling scattered on top. Cover with the remaining dough, ensuring the filling is well wrapped.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan in the oven and bake the pie for about 50 minutes or until golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma that will fill the kitchen is simply divine!

7. Cooling and serving: After the pie is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, sprinkle powdered sugar on top and cut it into rectangular pieces. Place the pieces on a platter, ready to be enjoyed!

Serving suggestions

This pie pairs perfectly with a warm herbal tea or a glass of flavored yogurt. Additionally, a scoop of ice cream will add a refreshing touch and a delicious combination of textures.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of country pie contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on size and ingredients used. It is rich in protein due to the eggs and cheese, also providing calcium and essential vitamins from the sour milk and eggs. Raisins add a boost of antioxidants and fiber, making it a healthy choice for dessert.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use feta or ricotta cheese, but be sure to adjust the amount of salt according to taste.

2. How can I make the pie sweeter?
You can add more sugar to the filling or use sunflower honey instead of powdered sugar for decoration.

3. Can I add other fruits?
Certainly! Grated apples or caramelized pears are excellent options that pair well with the cheese filling.

4. Can the pie be frozen?
Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

Customized version

To add a touch of uniqueness, try adding some ground nuts to the filling or replace the sugar with maple syrup for a more complex sweetness. Another idea is to add coconut flakes for an exotic taste!

I wish you happy cooking and good appetite! Don't forget to share the pie with your loved ones, as joy multiplies when enjoyed together!

 Ingredients: 6 eggs, 2 cups sour milk (or yogurt), 2 cups flour, 1 cup oil, 1 packet baking powder, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 400 g cottage cheese, 4 tablespoons sugar, 1 packet vanilla, rum essence, 1 tablespoon grated orange peel, 100 g raisins, salt, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 100 g margarine, 200 g honey