Kritiki Bougatsa

Introduction to Kritiki Bougatsa

Kritiki Bougatsa is a traditional Greek pastry originating from the island of Crete. This delightful dish is a sweet and savory pastry, often filled with a variety of ingredients, ranging from myzithra cheese to semolina custard, and dusted with sugar and cinnamon. Bougatsa holds a special place in Greek culinary tradition, embodying the rich heritage and flavors of Crete. It is said that bougatsa was introduced to Greece by Byzantine Greeks who migrated from Asia Minor, and over the years, various versions of this pastry have emerged, with Kritiki Bougatsa being a celebrated variant in Crete.

Ingredients for Kritiki Bougatsa

• Phyllo dough - 500g
• Myzithra cheese - 300g
• Milk - 500ml
• Sugar - 100g
• Semolina - 80g
• Vanilla extract - 1 tsp
• Cinnamon - 1 tsp
• Butter - 100g, melted
• Icing sugar - for dusting

Preparation Steps

Before diving into the preparation of Kritiki Bougatsa, gather all the ingredients and tools you will need. Make sure to have a suitable baking dish and a saucepan ready.

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and semolina over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and resembles a custard-like consistency. Remove from heat.
3. Add vanilla extract and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Once cooled, fold in the crumbled myzithra cheese.

Assembling the Bougatsa

1. Brush a baking dish with melted butter.
2. Layer half of the phyllo dough sheets, brushing each one with melted butter.
3. Evenly spread the custard and cheese mixture over the phyllo layers.
4. Top with the remaining phyllo sheets, ensuring each is brushed with butter.
5. Trim any excess phyllo and tuck in neatly around the edges.
6. Score the top layers lightly with a sharp knife to define serving portions, but do not cut all the way through.

Cooking the Bougatsa

1. Place the assembled bougatsa into the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Use a cooking timer to ensure perfect timing.
3. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Serving and Enjoying Kritiki Bougatsa

Before serving, dust the bougatsa with icing sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Bougatsa is traditionally enjoyed warm, often as a breakfast dish or a sweet afternoon snack. Pair it with a cup of Greek coffee or an aromatic tea for a truly delightful experience. Enjoy the mix of crispy layers and creamy filling with every mouthful.

Conclusion

Kritiki Bougatsa is more than just a pastry; it's a piece of Crete's gastronomic legacy. Its rich flavors, contrasting textures, and historic roots make it a must-try dish for anyone exploring Greek cuisine. Whether you wish to savor it freshly baked at home or travel to Crete for an authentic taste, this pastry promises a flavorful journey back in time to the heart of the Byzantine era.