Description
This savory Balkan roll combines a fluffy sponge with a creamy cheese filling, enhanced by the vibrant flavor of ajvar, a traditional red pepper relish.
Ingredients
Units
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- 6 eggs
- 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 6 tbsp milk
- 0.45 oz (13 g) baking powder
- 3 tbsp ajvar (or other pepper spread)
- 1 tsp salt
- 8.8 oz (250 g) cottage cheese
- 6.3 oz (180 g) cream cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Separate the egg whites from the yolks. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
- In another bowl, combine the egg yolks with milk and ajvar. Mix until well combined.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture, being careful not to deflate the whites.
- Sift the flour and baking powder together, then gently fold into the egg mixture until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the sponge is golden and springs back when touched.
- While the sponge is baking, prepare the filling by mixing the cottage cheese and cream cheese together. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Once the sponge is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Carefully remove the parchment paper.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the sponge. Roll the sponge tightly into a log, starting from one of the shorter sides.
- Wrap the roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Before serving, slice the roll into rounds and garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Ajvar can be substituted with any similar pepper relish or spread. For a colorful variation, consider adding cooked chopped spinach for a green hue or poppy seeds for a dotted effect. This roll can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Slice just before serving for best presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Balkan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 10
- Cholesterol: 120