Tsar's Amber Syrniki

History of Syrniki

Syrniki, a classic Slavic dish, has graced the tables of households across Russia and Eastern Europe for centuries. The word "syrniki" derives from "syr," meaning cheese in Russian. Traditionally made with fried cheese, these creamy, golden pancakes have been a staple breakfast food as well as a beloved dessert. The Tsar's Amber Syrniki pays homage to the opulent Russian Empire, where ingredients like the finest apricots and honey were often enjoyed by the elite.

Ingredients

• Cottage cheese - 2 cups
• Eggs - 2 large
• Sugar - 3 tablespoons
• Flour - 1/2 cup, plus extra for dusting
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - a pinch
• Dried apricots - 1 cup, finely chopped
• Butter - 4 tablespoons, for frying
• Honey - 1/2 cup, for drizzling
• Sour cream - Optional, for serving

Preparation

Preparing the Cheese Mixture

Start by placing the cottage cheese into a large bowl. To achieve the best dough consistency, make sure the cheese is well-drained and dry. Use a fork to break it apart until it’s creamy and smooth.

Mixing the Ingredients

• Crack the eggs into the bowl with the cheese and mix well until thoroughly combined.
• Add sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
• Incorporate the flour and baking powder into the mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
• Fold in the finely chopped dried apricots to add a fruity element to your syrniki.

Forming the Syrniki

Lightly dust your hands and work surface with flour. Take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a patty, approximately 1 inch thick. Continue with the remaining mixture, flouring each patty as you go to prevent sticking.

Cooking Process

Frying the Syrniki

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Ensure the entire surface of the skillet is coated for even frying.
• Place a few patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a golden-brown hue.
• Repeat the process with the remaining syrniki, adding more butter as needed.

Using a Timer

To perfect the frying process, consider using a cooking timer. Timing is key to getting that perfect golden crust while ensuring the inside stays soft and creamy.

How to Enjoy Tsar's Amber Syrniki

Serving Suggestion

Transfer the freshly fried syrniki onto a serving plate. Drizzle liberally with honey, allowing it to seep into the pancake crevices, imbuing them with additional sweetness. If desired, serve with a dollop of sour cream for a tangy contrast.

Pairing Ideas

Enjoy the syrniki with a side of fresh seasonal fruits or preserves. A hot cup of tea or coffee complements this dish beautifully, making for a perfect breakfast or dessert treat.