Traditional Serbian Gibanica

Discover the irresistible comfort of Traditional Serbian Gibanica, a cherished Balkan dish that combines layers of flaky phyllo dough with a creamy, savory filling. This hearty recipe features a rich blend of feta and cottage cheese, enhanced with eggs, sour cream, and a splash of sparkling water for a light, airy texture. Baked to golden perfection, each bite offers a satisfying contrast of crisp edges and velvety layers. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course, Gibanica is a versatile crowd-pleaser that's easy to prepare yet indulgent enough for special occasions. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature, this authentic Serbian classic is a must-try for any fan of rustic, homestyle cuisine!

Nutriscore Rating: 53/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 500 grams phyllo dough sheets
• 400 grams feta cheese
• 250 grams cottage cheese
• 5 large eggs
• 100 milliliters milk
• 100 grams sour cream
• 100 grams butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 100 milliliters sparkling water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish (approximately 30x20 cm) with vegetable oil.

Step 2

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3

In a large bowl, crumble the feta cheese and mix it with the cottage cheese. Add in the eggs, reserving one egg yolk for later glazing. Beat the eggs lightly and combine with the cheese mixture.

Step 4

Pour in the milk, sour cream, melted butter (leaving a little for brushing the top), salt, and sparkling water. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined to form a slightly lumpy mixture.

Step 5

Place one sheet of phyllo dough on your work surface and drizzle or brush it lightly with the prepared cheese mixture. Gently crumple it like an accordion or loosely fold it to fit the baking dish and place it inside.

Step 6

Repeat the process with each phyllo sheet, layering and loosely folding them to fit beautifully into the dish, making sure each layer is well covered with the cheese mixture. Reserve about a cup of the cheese mixture for the top layer.

Step 7

Once all the phyllo sheets are used, pour the remaining cheese mixture over the top, spreading it evenly.

Step 8

Beat the reserved egg yolk with a little water and brush it over the top layer for a golden finish.

Step 9

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 10

Let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or side dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1837.1 grams (1837.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4269

Total Fat 263.90g	338%
Saturated Fat 127.20g	636%
Polyunsaturated Fat 21.90g
Cholesterol 1603mg	534%
Sodium 11279mg	490%
Total Carbohydrate 317.80g	116%
Dietary Fiber 17.90g	64%
Total Sugars 32.30g
Protein 148.00g	296%

Vitamin D 340IU	1702%
Calcium 2514mg	193%
Iron 16mg	90%
Potassium 1276mg	27%

*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: 56.0%

Protein: 14.0%

Carbs: 30.0%