Description
A classic Greek savory pie featuring a rich, creamy cheese filling lovingly encased in layers of golden, crispy filo pastry.
Ingredients
500 g (approx. 2 cups) cottage cheese
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons crème fraîche (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste, depending on cheese salinity)
400 g (approx. 10-12 sheets) filo pastry sheets, thawed
100 g (approx. 7 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg, for basting (egg wash)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 2 eggs, crème fraîche, and salt. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined and creamy.
Step 3: Carefully unroll the thawed filo pastry. Cover the sheets with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while you work.
Step 4: Place one sheet of filo pastry in the prepared baking dish, letting the excess hang over the sides. Brush lightly with melted butter.
Step 5: Repeat with 5-6 more filo sheets, layering them and brushing each with melted butter. Ensure the hanging edges are evenly distributed around the dish.
Step 6: Spread the entire cheese mixture evenly over the buttered filo layers.
Step 7: Fold the overhanging filo edges over the filling. Then, layer the remaining filo sheets on top, brushing each one generously with melted butter. Tuck in any loose edges to create a neat top.
Step 8: Score the top layers of the pie with a sharp knife into serving portions (squares or diamonds). Do not cut all the way through to the filling.
Step 9: Whisk the remaining egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Gently brush the top of the pie with this egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
Step 10: Bake for 40 minutes, or until the Tiropita is golden brown and puffed up. If it's browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil.
Step 11: Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the pie to set and makes it easier to cut.
Notes
For an authentic Greek flavor, substitute half of the cottage cheese with crumbled feta cheese. Ensure your filo is completely thawed and handled gently to prevent tearing. Cover unused filo with a damp towel while assembling. For extra richness, use a mix of butter and olive oil for brushing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg