Bulgarian · Bulgaria
Bulgarian Cheese Pastry with Fermented Dough
A traditional Bulgarian banitsa made with a fermented yufka dough and a creamy cheese filling
60 minutes6 servings

Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and add honey. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 tsp salt.
- Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
- After rising, punch down the dough and roll it out to 1/8 inch thickness.
- Cut into 6-8 rectangles and proceed with the cheese filling as in the original recipe.
- In a bowl, mix crumbled white cheese, sour cream, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Spread cheese mixture on dough rectangles, fold over filling, and seal edges.
- Brush with butter and oil, then bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.





