Cottage cheese and sour cream
Sir i vrhnje (cottage cheese and sour cream) is one of the culinary symbols of Zagreb and its surroundings. Fresh cow’s cheese mixed with sour cream can be a delicious spread or filling for strudels and cakes. As a cold appetiser – especially with homemade bread – it’s a beloved refreshment for hikers.
It is one of the best-known dishes of traditional Croatian cuisine. Simple, yet incredibly tasty, it wins hearts with its freshness and authentic homemade flavour. In the Medvednica area, it’s often served as a starter, light meal or even dessert – with a bit of sugar on top.
Ingredients
● 300 g fresh cow’s cheese (preferably homemade)
● 200 ml sour cream (whole milk, ideally homemade)
● a pinch of salt (optional)
● fresh chives or ground red paprika for garnish (optional)
Preparation
● Lightly crumble the fresh cheese with a fork in a bowl – for a smoother texture, you can briefly blend it.
● Add the sour cream and gently mix until it gets a creamy consistency.
● Lightly salt to taste – or add a bit of sugar if you prefer a sweet version.
● Serve chilled, with homemade cornbread, flatbread or as a side with cured meats.
Serving suggestion
In mountain huts on Medvednica, cottage cheese and sour cream is often served as part of a traditional platter – with homemade bread, onions, bacon and a glass of gemišt (white wine and sparkling water). Perfect after a walk through the forest paths.
