Bougatsa Recipe

Bougatsa Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfection

What is Bougatsa?

Bougatsa is a traditional Greek pastry that is made with phyllo pastry, semolina custard, and cinnamon. It can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and is a popular street food in Greece.

Ingredients

• 1 package (1 pound) phyllo pastry, thawed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup semolina flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 4 cups milk
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Unfold the phyllo pastry and lay it out on a work surface. Brush with melted butter.
3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the semolina flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
5. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the eggs and vanilla extract.
7. Pour the custard filling over the phyllo pastry and spread evenly.
8. Roll up the phyllo pastry tightly and place in the prepared baking dish.
9. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use full-fat milk and butter.
• If you don't have a rolling pin, you can use a wine bottle or a can of soup to roll out the phyllo pastry.
• Bougatsa can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Variations

• Add chopped nuts or raisins to the custard filling.
• Top the bougatsa with a glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.
• Serve bougatsa with honey or yogurt.

Bougatsa is a delicious and versatile pastry that can be enjoyed for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can make this traditional Greek treat in your own kitchen.