Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 700 g all-purpose flour
• 500 ml kefir
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

For the Filling:

• 700 g cottage cheese
• 3 large eggs
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

Steps to Make Cottage Cheese-Stuffed Kefir Flatbreads

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and baking soda.
   • Pour in the kefir and mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
   • Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft, smooth, and elastic. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and set aside to rest while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare the Cottage Cheese Filling:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until smooth and evenly combined.
   • Taste the filling and adjust the salt as needed. The filling should be flavorful but not overly salty.
3. Divide the Dough:
   • Divide the dough into equal portions, depending on the size of the flatbreads you want. For medium-sized flatbreads, divide into 10-12 portions.
   • Roll each portion into a ball and set aside.
4. Fill and Shape the Flatbreads:
   • On a lightly floured surface, take one dough ball and roll it into a small circle, about ¼-inch thick.
   • Place a spoonful of the cottage cheese filling in the center, then fold the edges over the filling to seal it. Pinch the edges together to prevent the filling from leaking out.
   • Carefully flatten the filled dough ball with your hands, then gently roll it out again into a circle, about ½-inch thick. Be gentle to avoid tearing the dough.
5. Cook the Flatbreads:
   • Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Place the filled flatbread in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Transfer the cooked flatbread to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
   • Repeat with the remaining dough balls, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the flatbreads warm, with a side of sour cream or yogurt if desired. Garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Sugar: 2 g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling? Yes! You can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta, feta, or a mix of grated cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I bake these flatbreads instead of frying them? Absolutely. Place the flatbreads on a lined baking sheet, brush them with a bit of oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking? Make sure to pinch the edges well after filling and avoid overfilling. A small amount of filling will ensure the flatbreads stay intact.
4. Can I make these flatbreads in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and cook the flatbreads when ready to serve for the best freshness.
5. What can I serve with these flatbreads? They pair well with sour cream, yogurt, fresh herbs, or a light salad. They’re versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger meal.

Tips for Making the Best Cottage Cheese-Stuffed Flatbreads

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh kefir and high-quality cottage cheese.
2. Don’t Overfill: Overfilling can cause the dough to tear and the filling to leak out during cooking. Stick to a modest spoonful of filling per flatbread.
3. Rest the Dough: Letting the dough rest allows it to become more elastic and easier to roll out, making the cooking process smoother.
4. Control the Heat: Fry over medium heat to cook the flatbreads evenly without burning the outside. Adjust the heat as needed for a golden, crispy crust.
5. Serve Warm: These flatbreads are best enjoyed warm when the filling is creamy and the outside is still crispy.

Storage Tips

• In the Refrigerator: Store leftover flatbreads in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for a few minutes before serving.
• In the Freezer: These flatbreads freeze well. Place a sheet of parchment paper between each flatbread, then wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet.

Conclusion

These Cottage Cheese-Stuffed Kefir Flatbreads are a savory, comforting treat that’s easy to make and delicious to enjoy. With a soft, tangy kefir dough and a creamy, seasoned cottage cheese filling, each flatbread is a flavorful delight with every bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a hearty snack, they’re versatile and pair well with various accompaniments like sour cream or yogurt. Whether you’re looking for a filling snack or a unique dish to share, these stuffed flatbreads bring the warmth and richness of homemade comfort food straight to your table. Enjoy them freshly pan-fried, with a crispy outside and soft, flavorful center!