London’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors and traditions from around the world. Among the many delights that have found their way into the hearts (and stomachs) of Londoners are Romanian pastries. One such beloved dish is Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac, a savory pastry filled with cheese and spinach. This Romanian classic offers a taste of home for expatriates and an exciting discovery for those new to Romanian cuisine. Let’s explore the origins of Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac, its unique taste, and where you can find the best versions in London.
The Origins of Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac
Plăcinte is a traditional Romanian pastry with roots that stretch back centuries. The word “plăcinte” is derived from the Latin “placenta,” meaning “flat cake,” which indicates the dish’s ancient Roman origins. Over time, the recipe evolved, influenced by the culinary traditions of the Ottoman Empire and other neighboring cultures.
Plăcinte can be sweet or savory, with a variety of fillings ranging from apples and cherries to meat, potatoes, or cheese. Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac, in particular, is a popular savory version, featuring a rich filling of brined cheese (often a type of feta) and fresh spinach, encased in a golden, flaky pastry. This combination of cheese and spinach is a classic pairing in many Mediterranean and Balkan cuisines, and it’s beloved in Romania for its satisfying, hearty qualities.
The pastry is typically made from a simple dough of flour, water, and oil, rolled thin and layered to create a crispy, flaky texture. The filling is a harmonious blend of tangy cheese and tender spinach, sometimes enhanced with herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor. The pastry is then baked until golden and crisp, creating a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and the creamy, savory filling.
The Taste of Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac
Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac is celebrated for its rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture. The pastry itself is light and flaky, providing the perfect vessel for the creamy filling inside. The cheese, usually a brined variety like feta, brings a tangy, salty note to the dish, while the spinach adds a fresh, earthy flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.
The combination of the crispy, golden pastry and the warm, melty filling creates a delightful eating experience. The cheese becomes slightly gooey as it bakes, melding with the spinach to create a filling that is both hearty and flavorful. The pastry is often enjoyed warm, allowing the full depth of flavors to be appreciated.
In Romania, Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac is often enjoyed as a snack or a light meal, sometimes accompanied by a dollop of sour cream or a fresh salad. Its satisfying flavors and comforting texture make it a beloved choice for breakfast, lunch, or as part of a larger meal.
Where to Find the Best Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac in London
London’s Romanian community has brought this delicious pastry to the city, and several restaurants and bakeries offer their take on Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac. Here are some of the best places to try it:
- Transylvania Restaurant
Located in Leytonstone, Transylvania Restaurant is known for its authentic Romanian dishes, including their delicious Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac. The pastry is perfectly baked, with a crispy exterior and a rich, flavorful filling that captures the essence of this traditional dish. - Cornelius Restaurant
Situated in Burnt Oak, Cornelius Restaurant offers a wide range of Romanian specialties, and their Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac is a highlight. The pastry is light and flaky, with a generous filling of tangy cheese and fresh spinach that makes for a satisfying and tasty treat. - La Mama Acasă
In Wembley, La Mama Acasă provides a taste of Romania with their homemade Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac. The pastry is made fresh daily, using traditional recipes that ensure an authentic and delicious experience. The filling is perfectly seasoned, and the pastry itself is delightfully crisp and golden.
Making Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac at Home
For those who want to try making Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac at home, London’s Eastern European stores offer all the necessary ingredients, including fresh spinach and brined cheese. The dough is simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time, while the filling requires just a few ingredients and minimal preparation. The key to a successful Plăcinte is ensuring the pastry is rolled thin and baked to a perfect golden brown, resulting in a crisp, flaky exterior and a warm, gooey filling.
In conclusion, Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac is a delightful Romanian pastry that brings together the best of savory flavors in a crispy, golden package. Whether enjoyed in one of London’s Romanian restaurants or made at home, this dish offers a taste of Romania’s rich culinary heritage and a comforting reminder of home for those far from their native land. So, if you’re in the mood for something warm, hearty, and full of flavor, seek out Plăcinte cu Brânză și Spanac and enjoy a taste of Romania in the heart of London.