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Embark on a delightful journey through Romanian baking with our Plăcinte cu Brânză recipe. These flaky pastries filled with a creamy cheese blend are a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Romania. Join us as we unravel the art of creating these heavenly treats that are a perfect blend of sweet and savory.

Ingredients:

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil

1/2 cup (120 ml) water

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 lb (0.45 kg) feta cheese, crumbled

1/2 lb (0.23 kg) cottage cheese

2 eggs

1/4 cup (60 g) sugar

Zest of one lemon

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine flour, vegetable oil, water, and salt. Knead until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each portion into a thin sheet. In a separate bowl, mix feta cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, and lemon zest until well combined. Place a portion of the cheese mixture onto one half of each rolled-out dough sheet. Fold the other half of the dough over the cheese filling, creating a semi-circle shape. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork and pierce the top with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. Place the pastries on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the Plăcinte cu Brânză to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Serving:

Serve Plăcinte cu Brânză warm or at room temperature. These pastries make a delightful breakfast, snack, or dessert. Enjoy the contrast of the flaky crust and the rich cheese filling for an authentic Romanian experience.

Plăcinte cu Brânză encapsulate the essence of Romanian baking – a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Embrace the joy of crafting and savoring these delectable pastries, a true reflection of Romanian culinary tradition.