Traditional Bulgarian Banitsa

Experience the irresistible charm of **Traditional Bulgarian Banitsa**, a beloved Balkan pastry that layers delicate sheets of buttery phyllo dough with a rich, savory filling of feta cheese, eggs, and creamy yogurt. Perfectly golden and flaky, this classic dish is elevated by the slight tang of baking soda, which creates a beautifully airy texture in the filling. Easy to prepare and wonderfully satisfying, banitsa can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile choice for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a straightforward baking process, this timeless recipe invites you to bring the authentic flavors of Bulgaria into your kitchen. Whether served alongside a dollop of yogurt or paired with a fresh salad, banitsa is a true crowd-pleaser that celebrates the magic of simple ingredients.

Nutriscore Rating: 50/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 500 grams phyllo dough
• 400 grams feta cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 200 milliliters yogurt
• 100 grams butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3

In a large bowl, crumble the feta cheese into small pieces using a fork.

Step 4

Add the eggs to the cheese and mix well until combined.

Step 5

Stir in the yogurt, then add the salt and baking soda. Mix until you have a smooth filling.

Step 6

Grease a large baking dish with some of the melted butter.

Step 7

Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp towel to prevent drying.

Step 8

Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the bottom of the prepared dish and brush lightly with melted butter.

Step 9

Repeat layering until you have used about half of the phyllo sheets, brushing each sheet with butter.

Step 10

Spread half of the egg and cheese mixture over the layered phyllo sheets in the dish.

Step 11

Continue layering the remaining phyllo sheets on top of the filling, brushing each with butter.

Step 12

Once all the phyllo sheets are layered, spread the remaining egg and cheese mixture evenly on top.

Step 13

Fold any overhanging phyllo dough over the filling and brush the top with the remaining butter.

Step 14

Using a sharp knife, cut the banitsa into squares or diamonds in the baking dish before baking.

Step 15

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.

Step 16

Allow the banitsa to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1414.7 grams (1414.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3650

Total Fat 208.30g	267%
Saturated Fat 107.10g	536%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.00g
Cholesterol 1347mg	449%
Sodium 10809mg	470%
Total Carbohydrate 299.50g	109%
Dietary Fiber 17.90g	64%
Total Sugars 15.90g
Protein 129.40g	259%

Vitamin D 343IU	1717%
Calcium 2484mg	191%
Iron 15mg	85%
Potassium 1389mg	30%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.2%

Protein: 14.4%

Carbs: 33.4%