Žitna Pita

Introduction to Žitna Pita

Žitna Pita, often regarded as a quintessential Serbian dish, is a savory pie that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the Balkans. This delightful pie is traditionally made from simple ingredients that can be commonly found in any household pantry. Throughout history, variations of pita recipes have been passed down through generations, each adding its own unique touch to the timeless classic.

Ingredients

Before starting your culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

• Whole wheat flour
• Water
• Salt
• Olive oil
• Feta cheese
• Eggs
• Spinach

Preparation

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to prepare the dough and filling for your Žitna Pita.

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, a pinch of salt, and enough water to form a soft but not sticky dough.
2. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface. The kneading process is crucial as it develops the gluten structure in the flour, making the dough elastic.
3. Once well combined, cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Making the Filling

1. Chop the spinach into fine pieces and crumble the feta cheese in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Add in the eggs and mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Cooking Process

With both dough and filling ready, let's start assembling and baking the pie.

Rolling the Dough

1. On a floured surface, divide the rested dough into equal-sized balls.
2. Roll one dough ball into a thin sheet using a rolling pin. The dough should be almost transparent.

Assembling the Pita

1. Grease a baking pan with olive oil.
2. Place the first sheet of dough on the pan, letting it drape over the edges.
3. Spread a generous amount of the spinach and feta cheese mixture over the dough.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining sheets of dough and filling.
5. Fold over any excess dough and brush the top generously with more olive oil.

Baking the Pita

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the pita in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Monitor the color of the crust and adjust your cooking time if necessary to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Let the pie cool slightly before cutting it into pieces. Žitna Pita is versatile; serve it as a main dish paired with a fresh salad, or enjoy it as a savory snack. It pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine or a cup of strong Balkan coffee for a traditional touch.

Conclusion

Making Žitna Pita is not just about creating a delicious meal but also about experiencing the tradition and culture that comes with it. This humble pie, with its enriched flavors and textures, truly embodies the essence of Balkan cuisine. Gather your friends and family, indulge in this comforting dish, and relish each flavorful bite, transporting yourself to the warm and welcoming kitchens of Serbia.