Gibanica sa Sirom (Serbian Sky-High Crispy Filo & Tangy White Cheese Bake) – Authentic Serbia Recipe

Ingredients for Gibanica sa Sirom (Serbian Sky-High Crispy Filo & Tangy White Cheese Bake) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) crumpled layers of filo pastry soaked in egg-yogurt custard, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups tangy white feta/cottage cheese, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup kajmak cream
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with melted butter
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Serbia seasoning (sparkling water, sea salt)
• 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 390°F (200°C) and lightly oil an ovenproof skillet or baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, garlic, melted butter, and sparkling water, sea salt for 3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine crumpled layers of filo pastry soaked in egg-yogurt custard and tangy white feta/cottage cheese with the sautéed aromatics and layer evenly into the baking dish.
4. Top with kajmak cream and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top.
5. Let rest 5 minutes before serving warm at the table.