MAIN DISH
RUSSIAN CHEESE PANCAKES
Called syrniki from the Russian word syr (cheese), these are lovely with melted butter and sour cream or fruit compote (see today's online recipe). Russian cottage cheese (tvorog) is available at Russian markets in Sunny Isles Beach including Kalinka Deli, 18090 Collins Ave. (305-705-9333).
• 2 pounds Russian cottage cheese or farmers cheese
• 2 egg yolks, beaten
• 1 whole egg, beaten
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• Butter for frying
If the cheese is wet, place it in a colander in the sink to drain, pressing gently with the back of a spoon.
Place in a bowl. Stir in the egg yolks, egg, salt, sugar and flour, blending well. Form the mixture into 2 sausage-shaped rolls and chill at least 30 minutes (or up to a couple of days, covered).
When ready to cook, cut the rolls into 1-inch thick rounds, gently shaping into patties with your hands. Fry them in plenty of melted butter over medium-high heat until browned on both sides. Serve hot. Makes 4 to 6 servings.
Source: Adapted from A Taste of Russia by Darra Goldstein (Russian Life, 1999).
Per serving: 361 calories (37 percent from fat), 15 g fat (8 g saturated, 5 g monounsaturated), 164 mg cholesterol, 27 g protein, 29 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 1,140 mg sodium.
