Traditional Nalysnyky Recipe

2022-11-01

By Chef Kateryna

Ukrainian Cuisine

Dessert

Indulge in a traditional Ukrainian dish with this easy recipe for Nalysnyky. 

Ukranian Style Crepes

A popular dessert in Ukrainian cuisine that can be traced back to many regions of the country. The dish is often served with sour cream or berry sauce. Nalysnyky are a versatile dessert that can be adapted to different tastes and preferences. 

Origins from Western Ukraine Delight

However, it is commonly associated with western Ukraine, particularly with the region of Lviv, which is known for its rich culinary traditions. In some regions, they are filled with meat or vegetables, while in others, they are made with sweet cream cheese or jam.

Lviv's Cultural Culinary Heritage

Lviv is a city in western Ukraine that was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire for much of its history. The city was a cultural crossroads between eastern and western Europe, and its culinary traditions reflect this mix of cultures. Nalysnyky is just one of many dishes that have their roots in Lviv's rich culinary heritage. 

Delicate Crepes with a Savory Filling

Nalysnyky are thin crepes made from a batter of flour, eggs, milk, and salt. The crepes are traditionally filled with a mixture of cottage cheese, sugar, and egg yolks, and are then rolled up and baked in the oven until the filling is heated through and the edges of the crepes are crispy. 

Pitfalls on Nalysynky

 Preparing the batter: Preparing the batter can be a bit challenging, as it needs to be smooth and free of lumps to create a thin and delicate pancake. Whisk the ingredients thoroughly and let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.

 Cooking the pancakes: Cooking the pancakes can be tricky, as they need to be thin and evenly cooked. Use a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet, and heat it over medium-high heat. Use a ladle to pour the batter into the pan, and swirl it around to create an even layer. Cook until the edges are golden brown, then flip and cook the other side.

 Filling the pancakes: Filling the pancakes is where the fun begins! You can use a variety of fillings, from sweet to savory, and they should be heated through before being added to the pancake. Be careful not to overfill the pancakes, as this can make them difficult to roll.

 Rolling the pancakes: Rolling the pancakes can be a bit challenging, as they need to be rolled tightly without tearing or spilling the filling. Use a spatula to help guide the pancake as you roll it up, and tuck the ends in to create a neat package.

 Serving the nalysnyky: Serving the nalysnyky is easy and fun! Top them with your favorite sauce, such as maple syrup, fruit compote, or savory gravy, and serve them hot.

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk

• 1 cup flour

• 2 eggs

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 2 cups cottage cheese

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup butter

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp cinnamon

• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, flour, eggs and salt until smooth.

2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter into skillet and spread to cover the bottom.

3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until edges start to curl. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown. Repeat until all batter is used.

4. In a separate mixing bowl, beat cottage cheese, sour cream, butter, sugar and vanilla. Spread mixture over each nalysnyk and sprinkle with cinnamon and raisins, if using.

5. Roll up each nalysnyk and place seam-side down on a plate.

6. Serve hot or cold.

Preparation Time 45 min

Cook Time 45 min

Total time 90 min

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 250

Fat: 13 g

Saturated Fat: 8 g

Carbohydrates: 22 g

Fiber: 1 g

Sugar: 7 g

Protein: 10 g

Regional Ingredients Variations of Nalysnyky 

Kyiv-style Nalysnyky: Called "Kyivska Nalysnyky", this version is made with thin and delicate crepes filled with cottage cheese, raisins, and sugar, and served with sour cream. It is a popular dessert in Ukrainian households and restaurants.

Carpathian-style Nalysnyky: Known as "Karpaty Nalysnyky", this version is made with crepes filled with finely chopped pork and onions, seasoned with salt and pepper, and served with mushroom sauce. It is typically a savory dish enjoyed in the western region of Ukraine.

Odessa-style Nalysnyky: Called "Odeskyy Nalysnyky", this version is made with crepes filled with mashed potatoes and fried onions, seasoned with garlic and dill, and served with sour cream. It is a comfort food dish in the southern region of Ukraine.

Poltava-style Nalysnyky: Known as "Poltavsky Nalysnyky", this version is made with crepes filled with mushrooms, bacon, and onions, seasoned with black pepper and paprika, and served with gravy. It is typically enjoyed as a hearty breakfast in the central region of Ukraine.

Chernihiv-style Nalysnyky: Called "Chernihivsky Nalysnyky", this version is made with crepes filled with cottage cheese and topped with melted butter and honey. It is typically a sweet breakfast or dessert, sometimes served with berries or fruit jam.

Transcarpathian-style Nalysnyky: Known as "Zakarpatsky Nalysnyky", this version is made with crepes filled with minced pork or beef mixed with mashed potatoes and onions, seasoned with caraway seeds and thyme, and served with sour cream. It is a filling and savory dish typical of the mountainous region of Ukraine.

Lviv-style Nalysnyky: Called "Lwivska Nalysnyky", this version is made with crepes filled with diced apples, cottage cheese, and cinnamon, and served with caramelized sugar. It is a sweet and indulgent dessert that is popular in the city of Lviv.

Try this easy recipe for Nalysnyky and enjoy a traditional Ukrainian dessert! Share your delicious creation on your socials with the following hashtags #nalysnyky #ukrainianfood #cottagecheese #cinnamon #raisins #warmspices #brunch #dessert