Poale-n Brau/ Branzoaice

Delicious Poale-n Brau Recipe (Branzoaice)

If you want to bring a touch of nostalgia into your kitchen, Poale-n Brau or Branzoaice are the perfect choice! This sweet and fluffy dessert, filled with rich cheese, is a true delight for the taste buds. With a history that spans many generations, these pastries have often been prepared by skilled housewives from different corners of the world, becoming a symbol of joy and gatherings with loved ones. Additionally, with the help of this detailed guide, you will be able to create a delicious version, perfect for any occasion.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Number of servings: 12 pieces

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 650 g flour
- 3 eggs + 1 egg for brushing
- 270 ml lukewarm milk
- 150 g sugar
- 10 g granulated yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 50 g butter, melted and cooled
- 50 ml oil
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon and/or orange zest

For the filling:
- 700 g cottage cheese with raisins (preferably drained)
- 2 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon and/or orange zest
- vanilla essence

Preparation method:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by adding the liquid ingredients to the bread machine in the following order: lukewarm milk, lightly beaten eggs, melted butter, oil, and lemon and orange zest. This step is essential for obtaining a fluffy dough. Then, add the solid ingredients: sugar, salt, flour, and granulated yeast. Select the dough program and let the machine do its magic. If you don't have a bread machine, you can mix the ingredients manually in a large bowl, kneading them until you achieve an elastic dough.

2. Proofing the dough:
Once the dough has been kneaded, cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial as it allows the yeast to act, giving the dough its characteristic fluffy texture.

3. Preparing the filling:
While the dough is rising, you can prepare the filling. In a bowl, beat the two eggs and mix them with the cottage cheese, sugar, lemon and orange zest, and vanilla essence. If the cheese is too soft, add a tablespoon of semolina to achieve a firmer consistency. Ensure the filling is homogeneous but do not let it sit too long to avoid losing freshness.

4. Shaping the pastries:
When the dough is ready, divide it into 12 equal balls. Use a rolling pin to roll each ball into a circle. You can make a few cuts on the edges for a decorative look. Add 2 tablespoons of the cheese filling in the center of each circle and push the edges towards the center, like rose petals, to form a closed pastry.

5. Baking the pastries:
Preheat the oven to 160 °C. Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat the remaining egg and brush each pastry to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Bake the pastries for 15-20 minutes or until golden and the filling is slightly browned.

6. Finishing:
After the pastries have cooled, dust them with sugar for an elegant look and sweet taste. They can be served warm or at room temperature, and their aroma will fill your home with joy.

Practical tips:

- Cottage cheese: Choose well-drained cottage cheese to avoid a too-wet filling. If you prefer, you can use goat cheese or ricotta for a different variation.
- Flavoring: Experiment with various flavors by adding cinnamon or cardamom to the filling for an extra taste.
- Serving: Poale-n Brau pairs wonderfully with a fruit tea or a flavored latte. You can also add a berry sauce for a sweet-sour contrast.

Nutritional benefits:

This dessert is not only delicious but also nutritious. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, and eggs add a boost of essential nutrients. Whole flour can be used instead of white flour to improve fiber content, making the pastries healthier.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use goat cheese or ricotta for a more gourmet version. Make sure the cheese is well-drained.

- How do I keep the pastries fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can gently reheat them before serving.

- Can I freeze the pastries?
Yes, the pastries can be frozen. Make sure they are completely cooled and wrapped in aluminum foil or freezer bags.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Poale-n Brau are a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it's a family meal or a gathering with friends. I wish you good luck in cooking and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: For 12 pieces: Dough: 650 g flour, 3 eggs + 1 egg for brushing, 270 ml warm milk, 150 g sugar, 10 g granulated yeast, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 50 g melted and cooled butter, 50 ml oil, 2 teaspoons grated lemon and/or orange zest. Filling: 700 g cottage cheese with raisins, 2 eggs, 150 g sugar, 2 teaspoons grated lemon and/or orange zest, vanilla essence.