Blissful Banitsa

On my village walk this morning with my dogs and various other village dogs joining the pack, I heard someone shouting out, "Michelle chakam! Yella!", which as I understand means "Wait! Come!". I called back, "idvam" (I'm coming), thinking Rosa needed help with moving something. To my delight, Rosa handed me pieces of warm, freshly made banitsa with special ingredients that grow like weeds in this mountain village. Rosa's recipe contained, eggs, rice, bulgarian feta, dock leaves, sorrel leaves, and cabbage all finely shredded and layered within filo pastry. Perfect texture and literally a whole meal in one little square, and "mnogo vkusno" (very delicious).

Banitsa (also spelled baniца, banitza, or banica) is a traditional Bulgarian pastry made by layering a mixture of whisked eggs, yogurt, and white brined cheese (usually sirene) between filo pastry and then baking it. It's deeply rooted in Bulgarian culture and cuisine.

Origin of Banitsa:

Banitsa is believed to have Ottoman and Balkan influences, dating back centuries. The technique of layering dough and filling—similar to baklava or börek—is common in the cuisines of the former Ottoman Empire. Over time, Bulgarians developed their own distinct versions and made banitsa a national symbol, particularly associated with holidays and family gatherings.

Common Variations of Banitsa in Bulgaria:

1. Traditional Cheese Banitsa:

   • The most common version, made with eggs, sirene cheese, and yogurt.

2. Tikvenik (Pumpkin Banitsa):

   • Sweet version with grated pumpkin, sugar, and cinnamon, often eaten in autumn.

3. Zelnik:

   • Filled with spinach, sorrel, or other leafy greens, and sometimes with rice or cheese.

4. Mlechna Banitsa (Milk Banitsa):

   • A sweet version soaked in sweetened milk after baking.

5. Banitsa with Meat:

   • Filled with ground meat and onions, often served as a main dish.

6. Lukanka Banitsa:

   • Filled with chopped Bulgarian dried sausage (lukanka) and cheese.

7. Banitsa with Rice:

   • Combines rice, eggs, and cheese—sometimes cooked as a more filling main dish.

8. Sweet Banitsa with Raisins or Apples:

   • A dessert-style banitsa, using sugar, raisins, apples, and cinnamon.

Cultural Notes:

• New Year's Banitsa (Lucky Banitsa / Kъсмети):

  • Special banitsa made for New Year's Eve where symbolic fortunes (written on paper) or lucky charms are placed inside.