Bulgarian Ears Recipe: Delicious and Authentic Ears Pastry

Ears

Bulgarian Ears Recipe: Delicious and Authentic Ears Pastry
Region / culture: Bulgaria | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ears
Ears

Ears are a traditional Eastern European dish that consists of dumplings filled with cheese and topped with butter. This savory dish is a favorite among many and is perfect for a comforting meal.

History

Ears have been a staple in Eastern European cuisine for centuries. The dish originated in countries like Romania, Hungary, and Slovakia, where it is commonly enjoyed as a hearty and delicious meal. The name "ears" comes from the shape of the dumplings, which resemble the ears of an animal.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Make a well in the flour and place 0.5 tsp of salt, the diluted yeast, and 0.5 cup of water in it. Knead the dough until it reaches a medium soft consistency (add more water if necessary) and let it stand for about one hour.
  2. Roll the dough into sheets that are approximately 3-4 mm thick, then cut them into squares. Add crumbled cheese to each square.
  3. Fold the squares in half, seal the edges, and drop them into boiling water with salt.
  4. Boil for approximately 5 minutes.
  5. Arrange the dumplings on a dish and pour melted butter over them.
  6. Serve hot.

Variations

  • Add cooked bacon or ham to the cheese filling for a smoky flavor.
  • Use different types of cheese, such as feta or cheddar, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to seal the edges of the dumplings tightly to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking.

- Boil the dumplings in salted water for the best flavor.

- Serve the ears hot with a generous drizzle of melted butter for a rich and indulgent finish.

Serving Suggestions

Ears can be served as a main dish with a side of salad or vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use whole wheat flour instead of white flour for a healthier option.

- Substitute the white sheep's cheese with any other type of cheese that melts well.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough and cheese filling ahead of time and assemble the ears just before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the ears on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Ears pair well with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover ears in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply microwave or steam until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of ears contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of ears contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of ears contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of ears contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Ears are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Ears contain gluten and dairy.

Summary

Ears are a delicious and filling dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious meal option.

Summary

Ears are a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. With a cheesy filling and a buttery topping, this Eastern European classic is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother, who was known for her exceptional cooking skills, had invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare a special dish for a family gathering.

As I stood by her side, watching her expertly chop vegetables and season meats, I couldn't help but marvel at the way she moved with such grace and precision. I longed to be able to create dishes as delicious as hers, and I knew that the key lay in learning from her.

On this particular day, my grandmother was making a dish called "Ears." I had never heard of it before, but as she explained the recipe to me, I quickly realized that it was a simple yet flavorful dish that had been passed down through generations in our family.

To make Ears, my grandmother told me, you first needed to gather a few key ingredients: pork ribs, garlic, onions, vinegar, soy sauce, and bay leaves. The pork ribs were boiled until tender, then marinated in a mixture of garlic, onions, vinegar, and soy sauce for several hours. Finally, they were pan-fried until golden brown and crispy, then served with a side of steamed rice.

As my grandmother walked me through each step of the recipe, I listened intently, eager to absorb every detail. She explained the importance of marinating the pork ribs for just the right amount of time to ensure that they absorbed all the flavors of the seasonings. She showed me how to pan-fry them until they were perfectly crisp on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside.

As we worked together in the kitchen, I could see the joy in my grandmother's eyes as she passed down her knowledge to me. She had learned the recipe for Ears from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a recipe that had been perfected over generations, each cook adding their own touch to make it truly special.

When we finally sat down to eat the Ears that evening, I was amazed at how delicious it was. The pork ribs were bursting with flavor, the perfect balance of tangy vinegar, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic. I knew that I had found a new favorite dish, one that I would cherish and pass down to future generations.

In the years that followed, I would often think back to that day in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning how to make Ears. It was a moment that would stay with me forever, a memory of love and tradition that I would carry in my heart always.

And now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing Ears for my own family, I can't help but feel grateful for the legacy that my grandmother passed down to me. The recipe for Ears may be simple, but it carries with it the memories of generations past, the flavors of history, and the love of family. And as I serve this dish to my loved ones, I know that I am continuing a tradition that will live on for years to come.

Categories

| Bulgarian Recipes | Bulgarian Snacks | Cheese Recipes | Slavic Recipes | Yeast Recipes |

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