Zelnik

Zelnik is a traditional Macedonian pastry from the Balkans composed of thin layers of phyllo pastry filled with various combinations of sirene, eggs, sorrel, browned meat, leeks and rice. In winter, the filling traditionally includes brined cabbage and spinach, from which the dish derives its name: zelje (Macedonian language: "зелje") meaning spinach. Zelnik is often sometimes served with yoghurt and its best eaten warm.

Zelnik

Zelnik filled with leek
Type	Savoury pie
Place of origin	Republic of North Macedonia
Serving temperature	Warm
Main ingredients	Phyllo pastry, sirene, eggs, spinach, sorrel, browned meat, leeks, rice
Cookbook: Zelnik

Zelnik is similar to a dish popular in Turkey, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, called Börek. Zelnik is often mistakenly referred to as Börek. Unlike zelnik, cabbage Börek is made for holidays and festivals and is served with kefir. The crust and the layers of Börek are thicker and other spices are used. Zelnik is typically made with leek and sirene (white cheese) and consists of very thinly rolled layers of phyllo dough. Zelnik is usually prepared as one long, thin piece of pastry and wound up into a spiral shape.