Štrudla sa Makom

Background and History of Štrudla sa Makom

Štrudla sa Makom, also known as poppy seed strudel, is a beloved pastry that traces its origins to Central and Eastern Europe. It is particularly popular in countries like Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, and Hungary. This delectable dish consists of a flaky, buttery pastry filled with a sweet poppy seed mixture.

Poppy seeds have been used in European cuisine for centuries, known for their nutty flavor and pleasant aroma. They became a staple in many traditional dishes and pastries, including the famous Štrudla. Often made during special occasions and holidays, Štrudla sa Makom reflects the rich culinary traditions and cultural heritage of the region.

Ingredients

• Flour - 500g
• Butter - 200g, unsalted
• Milk - 150ml
• Yeast - 30g, fresh
• Sugar - 150g
• Eggs - 2
• Salt - a pinch
• Poppy seeds - 250g
• Honey - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon zest - from one lemon
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon

Preparation

The preparation of Štrudla sa Makom requires patience and precision, but the outcome is well worth the effort. The process begins with preparing the dough, an intricate task that ensures the pastry turns out just right.

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Warm the milk slightly and dissolve the yeast with some sugar. Set aside for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.
3. Add the frothy yeast mixture, one egg, and the melted butter to the flour mixture. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Preparing the Poppy Seed Filling

1. Grind the poppy seeds using a coffee grinder or food processor.
2. In a saucepan, combine the ground poppy seeds, honey, sugar, and milk. Cook over low heat until the mixture thickens.
3. Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool.

Step 3: Assembling the Štrudla

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface into a thin rectangle.
3. Spread the prepared poppy seed filling evenly across the dough.
4. Gently roll the dough into a log, ensuring the filling remains intact. Seal the edges.
5. Place the log onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the rolled dough for a glossy finish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Process and Timing

The entire process, from preparing the dough and filling to the final bake, will take a couple of hours. It’s helpful to use a cooking timer to keep track of the rising and baking times, ensuring everything is perfectly timed for optimal results.

How to Enjoy Štrudla sa Makom

Once baked, allow the Štrudla sa Makom to cool slightly before slicing. It’s traditionally enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet breakfast treat. Serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for an authentic experience.

This dish can also be a delightful centerpiece for holiday tables and festive gatherings, often served alongside other traditional pastries and sweets.