Cheese and raisin pie
Cheese and Raisin Pie – a traditional delight that combines sweet and savory flavors, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is more than just a simple pie; it is a journey into memories, a taste adventure that reminds us of family meals, festive moments, and the warmth of home. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this cheese and raisin pie is sure to be a hit.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of pastry (choose a quality one that is not too thin)
- 200 g raisins
- 5-6 eggs
- 400-500 g cottage cheese (ideally fresh and well-drained)
- 500 g natural yogurt (preferably whole)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar (or you can use natural vanilla extract)
- Grated zest of one lemon (for a fresh taste)
- A pinch of salt (to enhance flavors)
- Rum essence (optional, but recommended)
- 12 tablespoons of flour (to bind the mixture)
Step by step preparation:
1. Preparing the raisins: Start by washing the raisins well under cold running water. Then, place them in a small bowl with a little warm water to soften. This step is important to make them juicier and enhance their flavor. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes.
2. Preparing the mixture: In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese, yogurt, granulated sugar, vanilla sugar, grated lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix well with a spatula or whisk until you obtain a smooth mixture.
3. Adding the eggs and flour: Lightly beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then incorporate them into the cheese mixture, stirring continuously. Finally, add the flour and rum essence, mixing until well combined. Don't worry if the mixture seems a bit thicker; this is normal!
4. Incorporating the raisins: Once the raisins have softened, drain them and add them to the cheese mixture. Gently mix to avoid crushing them.
5. Assembling the pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Take a deep baking dish and grease it with a little oil to prevent sticking. Place the pastry sheet in the dish, without stretching it, allowing it to crinkle slightly. This detail will give the pie a more interesting texture.
6. Adding the mixture: Use a spoon to spread an even layer of cheese mixture over the pastry. You can sprinkle a few raisins on top for added flavor.
7. Layers and finishing: Continue to add layers of pastry and mixture, making sure to leave about a finger's space at the top to allow the pie to rise. The final layer should be a sheet of pastry that you lightly grease with oil.
8. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the pie is golden and firm to the touch.
9. Finishing: After removing the pie from the oven, pour a little warm milk over it and cover the dish with a clean towel. This step will help retain moisture and make the pie fluffier.
10. Serving: Allow the pie to cool slightly before cutting it. You can serve it plain or with a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top for a creamy and refreshing contrast. It is also delicious alongside a fruit tea or a glass of milk.
Useful tips:
- If you want a stronger flavor, you can add a little cinnamon to the cheese mixture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese – feta or goat cheese can provide an interesting twist.
- Raisins can be replaced with other dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries, for a more exotic variation.
Nutritional benefits:
Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, while yogurt provides beneficial probiotics for digestion. Raisins are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making this pie not just a tasty dessert, but also a healthy choice.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of flour? Of course! Whole wheat flour can add a richer and healthier taste.
- What can I do with leftovers? If you have leftover pie, you can store it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for a future snack.
- Is it suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegan alternatives for eggs and yogurt, but the texture and taste may vary.
This cheese and raisin pie is a versatile and easily adaptable recipe, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. Don't hesitate to put your personal touch on it, transforming it into a truly special dessert!
Ingredients: 1 pie crust 200 g raisins 5-6 eggs 400-500 g cottage cheese 500 g plain yogurt 1/2 cup granulated sugar 3 packets vanilla sugar grated lemon peel salt rum essence 12 tablespoons flour
