Syrniki

A foolproof recipe for soft, perfect cottage cheese pancakes (syrniki) that keep their shape.

Ingredients

• Cottage cheese 5% (well drained) 500 g
• Egg 1 pc
• Semolina 2-3 tbsp
• Sugar 1 tbsp
• Salt 1 pinch
• Vanilla powder 5 g (to taste)
• Flour (for dusting/shaping)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Method

1. 1.Squeeze out all excess liquid from the cottage cheese using paper towels or cheesecloth (the recipe weight refers to the squeezed cheese).
2. 2.In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
3. 3.Add the semolina, mix thoroughly, and let rest for 30 minutes so the semolina absorbs the excess moisture.
4. 4.Divide the mixture into 60 g portions, lightly coat with flour, and shape into neat rounds using an inverted flat glass or a ring mold.
5. 5.Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the syrniki on both sides until golden brown.

Notes

• Do not add more than 1 tablespoon of sugar to the mixture, as extra sugar causes syrniki to melt and fall apart in the pan. Dust with powdered sugar after cooking if you prefer them sweeter.
• For a richer flavor without burning, use a mix of vegetable oil and a little butter for frying.