Sirene po Shopski (Сирене по шопски) is an authentic Bulgarian dish that is individually prepared. It combines creamy white cheese, fresh vegetables, and eggs baked in a traditional clay pot for a comforting and delicious meal.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients (For Two People)
- 200 grams Bulgarian white cheese (sirene) or feta
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 green or red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons sunflower oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 fresh hot pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Black pepper to taste
- 4 individual caseroles, one per person
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
Step 2: Prepare the Clay Pot
Traditionally, Sirene po Shopski is baked in individual clay pots known as гювечета. You can use a small ovenproof dish if you don’t have a clay pot. Drizzle one tablespoon of sunflower or olive oil into the bottom of the pot.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Crumble half of the white cheese (sirene) into the pot. Layer the sliced tomatoes and bell pepper on top of the cheese. Add the remaining crumbled cheese on top of the vegetables.
Step 4: Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle the paprika and black pepper over the top. Add a sliced fresh hot pepper if you like a bit of heat.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Place the pot in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the cheese is bubbling.
Step 6: Add the Eggs
After 15-20 minutes of baking, crack the eggs directly on top of the dish and return it to the oven. Bake for another 5-7 minutes until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the eggs are cooked to your preference, remove the pot from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Tips and Tricks
- Cheese Choice: Feta is a good substitute if you can’t find traditional Bulgarian white cheese (sirene).
- Cooking the Eggs: Adjust the cooking time of the eggs based on how runny or firm you prefer the yolks.
- Chef’s Recommendation: Add a slight drizzle of olive oil over the eggs before baking for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
Sirene po Shopski is traditionally served with fresh crusty bread to soak up the juices and melted cheese. A simple Shopska salad or a glass of Ayran (a yogurt-based drink) pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Wine Matching
Pair this dish with a crisp Bulgarian white wine, such as Misket or Chardonnay, which complements the tangy cheese and fresh vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Since the dish is based on white cheese, it cannot be made dairy-free without changing its essence.
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.
About Sirene po Shopski (Сирене по шопски)
Sirene po Shopski is a beloved Bulgarian dish originating from the Shopluk region, which includes Sofia and its surrounding areas. The dish is traditionally made with sirene, a white-brined cheese staple in Bulgarian cuisine. Baked in clay pots, this dish is known for its simplicity and rich flavors, combining fresh vegetables, tangy cheese, and eggs.
Cultural Context
Sirene po Shopski is often enjoyed as a light dinner or as part of a larger meze spread. Many traditional Bulgarian recipes use clay pots to cook the dish, allowing the ingredients to meld together and create a warm, comforting meal. The combination of cheese, eggs, and vegetables represents the simplicity and freshness of Bulgarian cuisine, where locally sourced ingredients are celebrated for their natural flavors. The meal originates from the Sofia region, where the local population was historically called “Shops“.
 is an authentic Bulgarian dish that combines creamy white cheese, fresh vegetables, eggs, baked){kind=link}