Cottage Cheese Sticks

Cottage Cheese Sticks Recipe from Belarus | Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Belarus | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Cottage Cheese Sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that are perfect for any occasion. These crispy and flavorful sticks are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Cottage Cheese Sticks have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. They are believed to have originated in Eastern Europe, where cottage cheese is a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes. Over time, different variations of this recipe have emerged, each with its own unique twist.

Ingredients

300 g cottage cheese
8 tbsp flour
2 eggs
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp sour cream
0.5 tsp baking soda

How to prepare

Mash the cottage cheese and combine it with flour, eggs, sour cream, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly.
Roll the mixture into a layer that is 1 cm thick, then cut it into strips that are 2 cm wide.
Shape the mixture into sticks and fry them in a large amount of fat.
Before serving, dust the sticks with caster sugar and serve them with sour cream.

Variations

Add herbs or spices to the mixture for extra flavor.
Use whole wheat flour or almond flour for a healthier alternative.
Add chopped vegetables or cooked meat to the mixture for a heartier version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly mix the cottage cheese with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth and cohesive mixture.

- When shaping the sticks, wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.

- Fry the sticks in hot oil to achieve a crispy and golden brown exterior.

- Serve the sticks immediately after frying for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Cottage Cheese Sticks can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. They pair well with sour cream, salsa, or a tangy dipping sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Frying

Ingredient Substitutions

Ricotta cheese or cream cheese can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese.

- Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream.

- Honey or maple syrup can be used instead of sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the mixture for Cottage Cheese Sticks ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to fry. This will save you time and make the cooking process more convenient.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cottage Cheese Sticks on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese. You can also serve them in a basket lined with parchment paper for a rustic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Cottage Cheese Sticks pair well with a variety of beverages, such as tea, coffee, or a refreshing lemonade. They also go well with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Cottage Cheese Sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cottage Cheese Sticks contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cottage Cheese Sticks contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cottage Cheese Sticks contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cottage Cheese Sticks contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cottage Cheese Sticks are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.

Alergens

Cottage Cheese Sticks contain dairy (cottage cheese, eggs, sour cream) and gluten (flour).

Summary

Cottage Cheese Sticks are a nutritious and delicious snack that is high in protein and calcium. However, they are also high in fats and carbohydrates, so they should be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Cottage Cheese Sticks are a tasty and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or light meal. With a crispy exterior and a creamy interior, these sticks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Cottage Cheese Sticks. It was a sunny Saturday morning, and I was visiting my aunt Martha in her cozy little cottage by the lake. Martha was known for her delicious home-cooked meals and she always had a new recipe up her sleeve to try out.

As I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air. Martha was busy kneading the dough, her hands moving with precision and grace. I watched in awe as she expertly shaped the dough into little sticks and placed them on a baking sheet.

"What are you making, Aunt Martha?" I asked curiously, peering over her shoulder.

"These are my famous Cottage Cheese Sticks," she replied with a twinkle in her eye. "They're a family recipe that has been passed down for generations. Would you like to learn how to make them?"

I nodded eagerly, excited to learn the secret behind this delectable treat. Martha began to explain the recipe to me, her voice filled with warmth and enthusiasm. She told me that the key to making the perfect Cottage Cheese Sticks lies in using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic.

As she taught me each step of the process, I listened intently, absorbing every detail like a sponge. I watched as she mixed the cottage cheese with flour, eggs, and a pinch of salt, creating a soft and sticky dough. Then, she rolled the dough into thin sticks and brushed them with a mixture of melted butter and garlic powder before baking them in the oven until they were golden brown and crispy.

The moment I took my first bite of those warm, cheesy sticks, I knew I had to learn how to make them myself. Martha smiled proudly as she watched me savoring the flavors, knowing that she had passed down a cherished family recipe to the next generation.

Over the years, I have made Cottage Cheese Sticks countless times, perfecting the recipe with each batch. I have shared them with friends and family, who always rave about how delicious they are. Each time I bake a fresh batch, I am reminded of that sunny Saturday morning in Martha's kitchen, where I learned the art of making these savory treats.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that day, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the culinary knowledge that has been passed down to me through the generations. Cooking has always been a way for me to express myself creatively and connect with others. And the recipe for Cottage Cheese Sticks will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the bond between family and food.

So the next time you're in the mood for a tasty snack, why not try your hand at making Cottage Cheese Sticks? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass down the recipe to your own loved ones, creating new memories and traditions to cherish for years to come.