Štrukli: A Pastry Delight From Zagorje County
Passing by Zagreb region, you cannot miss trying 'štrukli'. Štrukli is a famous dish that has a history that dates back centuries, with roots in the northern regions of Croatia, particularly Zagorje. This dish, which comes in two distinct forms—savoury and sweet—has evolved over generations, with various unique twists on the recipe.
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Savoury Štrukli:
The savoury version of Štrukli is a true comfort food. Thin sheets of dough are rolled out and filled with a creamy mixture of cottage cheese, sour cream, eggs, and a pinch of salt. Once filled, the pastry is folded into a roll or a pocket, baked until golden, and served hot, often accompanied by a drizzle of melted butter or sour cream. There is as well a particular version of štrukli cooked in water and served as soup, particularly appreciated by the older generations.
Sweet Štrukli:
If you have a sweet tooth, the sweet version of Štrukli is a heavenly treat. Here, the dough is filled with a mixture of fresh fruit (often blueberries) and sugar. This version is typically baked until the fruit caramelizes, resulting in a delightful contrast of crispy pastry and sweet, fruity savour. As well, there is a more traditional version made with cooked štrukli, topped with bread crumbs in butter and sugar.
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Sharing Traditions:
One of the most beautiful aspects of Štrukli is that it is often prepared and enjoyed as a communal dish. Štrukli is therefore often passed by an older member of the family to a younger. The act of rolling out the dough, filling it with love, and baking it is a shared experience that keeps culinary traditions alive.
A Taste of Croatia:
When you take your first bite of Štrukli, you'll experience the essence of Croatia on your palate. It's a taste of a home-cooked meal that embodies the warmth of Croatian hospitality, inviting you to sit at the table and enjoy not just a meal but an experience filled with tradition.