Plăcinte (Romanian Savory and Sweet Pies)

Experience the delightful flavors of Romanian cuisine with Plăcinte, traditional pastries that can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, Plăcinte are perfect as a snack, breakfast, or a comforting treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 500 g all-purpose flour
• 250 ml warm milk
• 25 g fresh yeast or 7 g dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 egg (optional, for brushing)

For Sweet Filling (Optional)

• 200 g cottage cheese or ricotta
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Savory Filling (Optional)

• 200 g cooked potatoes, mashed
• 100 g feta or telemea cheese, crumbled
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

   Sweet Filling: Mix cottage cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth.
   Savory Filling: Combine mashed potatoes, crumbled cheese, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Plăcinte

   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into small circles or rectangles. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each piece of dough. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal. Arrange the filled Plăcinte on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish, if desired.

4. Bake

   Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. Serve

   Serve Plăcinte warm as a delicious snack, breakfast, or dessert. Sweet Plăcinte pair beautifully with tea or coffee, while savory ones make a hearty addition to lunch or dinner.

Serving

Enjoy the comforting taste of Romanian tradition with every bite of these versatile and flavorful pastries.