Placinte Cu Branza Si Spanac (aromanian Cheese And Spinach Pies)

Placinte cu branza si spanac, also known as Aromanian Cheese and Spinach Pies, are a traditional dish in Aromanian cuisine. These savory pies are filled with a delicious mixture of cheese and spinach, wrapped in a flaky pastry, and baked to golden perfection.

Vegetarian Appetizer Aromanian Aromanian Cuisine Pies Cheese Spinach
Placinte Cu Branza Si Spanac (aromanian Cheese And Spinach Pies)

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 pound feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 pound fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Stir in the yogurt until the dough starts to come together. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rest for 15 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together the crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, beaten eggs, and black pepper until well combined.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out each dough ball into a circle and place a spoonful of the cheese and spinach mixture in the center. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
  5. Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the tops with a little beaten egg for a golden finish.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
25 minutes
Total time:
55 minutes
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
20g
Protein
10g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large mixing bowl Pastry cutter or fork Rolling pin Baking sheet Parchment paper

Tools

Oven

Serving suggestions

Serve the placinte cu branza si spanac warm as an appetizer or as part of a brunch spread. They pair well with a dollop of sour cream or a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

For a shortcut, you can use store-bought pie crust instead of making the dough from scratch. Additionally, you can customize the filling by adding herbs or other types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.

Cost

$15