Introduction
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Russian cuisine with our exquisite Tvorozhniki recipe. These cottage cheese pancakes, a beloved breakfast staple, are renowned for their pillowy softness and tantalizing taste. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes, you can enjoy this culinary masterpiece in no time.
Ingredients
For the Tvorozhniki:
- 1 pound (454 grams) farmer's cheese, drained
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup (60 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch of salt
For the Filling (optional):
- 1/2 cup (120 grams) sour cherries, pitted
- 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Steps
Prepare the cottage cheese: Place the drained farmer's cheese in a large bowl and mash it until smooth. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.
Add wet ingredients: Crack the egg into the cheese and whisk until combined. Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract.
Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough pancakes.
Form the pancakes: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round or oval pancake, about 1/2-inch thick.
Prepare the filling (optional): In a small saucepan, combine the sour cherries, sugar, and cornstarch. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook until thickened, about 2 minutes. Set aside.
Fry the pancakes: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a generous amount of vegetable oil and wait until it shimmers. Carefully place the pancakes in the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Assemble the pancakes: If desired, spoon the cherry filling into the center of each pancake. Fold the edges over the filling to create a half-circle shape.
Serve and enjoy: Serve the Tvorozhniki warm with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, jam, or fruit compote.
Tips
- For a fluffier pancake, separate the egg and beat the egg white until stiff peaks form. Fold the whipped egg white into the batter before frying.
- To prevent the pancakes from sticking, make sure the skillet or griddle is well-seasoned.
- If you don't have farmer's cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese. However, the texture may be slightly different.
- Serve the Tvorozhniki with a dollop of sour cream for an authentic Russian experience.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the filling ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cherry filling up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Q: Can I freeze Tvorozhniki?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked Tvorozhniki for up to 2 months. Reheat them in a toaster or oven until warmed through.
Q: What other fillings can I use?
A: You can experiment with different fillings, such as applesauce, blueberry jam, or chocolate chips.
