Luttennitza
Bulgarian Luttennitza Recipe - Vegetarian Tomato Spread
Introduction
Luttennitza is a traditional Bulgarian dish that is bursting with flavor and is perfect for serving alongside grilled meats. This dish is easy to prepare and is sure to impress your family and friends with its unique taste.
History
Luttennitza has been a staple in Bulgarian cuisine for centuries. It is a dish that is loved by many and is often served at family gatherings and celebrations. The combination of tomato paste, water, vegetable oil, and spices creates a rich and savory flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 240 ml/8 fl oz tomato paste
- 120 ml/4 fl oz cold water
- 60 ml/2 fl oz vegetable oil
- salt and black pepper
- 4 spring onions, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
How to prepare
- In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- This dish is traditionally served as a side dish with grilled meats.
Variations
- You can add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the Luttennitza for added flavor and texture. You can also sprinkle some feta cheese on top before serving.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When preparing Luttennitza, be sure to mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are well combined. You can adjust the amount of black pepper and garlic to suit your taste preferences. This dish is best served warm and can be reheated easily in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
Luttennitza is best served warm as a side dish with grilled meats. It can also be served with rice or bread.
Cooking Techniques
Mix all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and serve warm.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier option. You can also use canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato paste.
Make Ahead Tips
Luttennitza can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Luttennitza in a decorative bowl and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Pairing Recommendations
Luttennitza pairs well with grilled meats such as chicken, pork, or beef. It also goes well with rice or bread.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Luttennitza contains approximately 120 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Luttennitza contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Luttennitza contains approximately 8 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Luttennitza contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Luttennitza is a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A.
Alergens
Luttennitza does not contain any common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.
Summary
Luttennitza is a flavorful dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great side dish to serve alongside grilled meats.
Summary
Luttennitza is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for serving alongside grilled meats. With its rich flavor and simple preparation, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Luttennitza. It was a warm summer day, and I had been visiting a small village in Bulgaria. I had always been fascinated by the different foods and flavors of other cultures, so when I heard about a local dish called Luttennitza, I knew I had to try it.
I asked around and eventually found a kind old woman who was willing to share her family recipe with me. She invited me into her home, a cozy little cottage with a fragrant herb garden out back. The smell of fresh bread wafted through the air as she bustled about the kitchen, gathering ingredients and utensils.
As she worked, she told me the story of how she had learned to make Luttennitza from her own grandmother many years ago. It was a traditional dish in their family, passed down from generation to generation. She spoke with such love and pride as she shared the recipe with me, and I couldn't wait to try it for myself.
The recipe for Luttennitza was surprisingly simple, consisting of just a few basic ingredients: flour, water, salt, and oil. The real magic, however, lay in the technique of making the dough. The key was to knead it until it was smooth and elastic, then roll it out into a thin, oval-shaped sheet.
Once the dough was ready, the old woman showed me how to fill it with a mixture of cheese, eggs, and herbs. She explained that the filling could vary depending on personal preference, but her family always used a combination of feta and mozzarella cheese, along with fresh parsley and dill.
As I watched her work, I was struck by the care and precision with which she folded the dough over the filling, creating a beautiful, braided loaf. She brushed it with a bit of oil and sprinkled it with sesame seeds before tucking it into the oven to bake.
The smell that filled the kitchen as the Luttennitza baked was nothing short of heavenly. The rich, savory aroma of cheese and herbs mingled with the warm, toasty scent of freshly baked bread. My mouth watered in anticipation as I waited for the dish to be done.
When the timer finally chimed, the old woman pulled the Luttennitza from the oven, its golden crust glistening in the light. She sliced it into thick, steaming wedges and served it to me on a rustic wooden platter. I took my first bite, savoring the crisp, flaky crust and the creamy, flavorful filling.
The taste of the Luttennitza was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. The cheese was tangy and sharp, balanced perfectly by the fresh herbs and the buttery richness of the dough. It was a comforting, satisfying dish that spoke of tradition and family ties.
As I finished my meal, the old woman smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride. "Now you know the secret of Luttennitza," she said. "Keep this recipe close to your heart, and share it with those you love. It is a dish that brings people together, no matter where they come from."
And so I left the little cottage that day, my belly full and my heart light. The recipe for Luttennitza was now a part of my own culinary repertoire, a treasured gift from a kind stranger in a far-off land. I have made it many times since then, always with a sense of gratitude and wonder for the power of food to connect us all.
Categories
| Bulgarian Recipes | Bulgarian Vegetarian | Slavic Recipes |