Sirenje Pečeno
The Quirky Foodster Team

Ingredients
- Sirenje (or feta-style cheese), sliced — 300 g (10.5 oz)
- Olive oil — 2 tbsp
- Dried oregano — 1 tsp
- Crusty bread, to serve
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Place the sliced cheese in a small baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until softened and lightly golden at the edges.
- Serve warm with crusty bread.
Introduction: Baked white brined cheese, warmed until soft and lightly golden, a simple, satisfying North Macedonian starter.
Cultural Background: Baking sirenje, the country's beloved white brined cheese, is a simple way to enjoy it warm, often served with fresh bread and a spoonful of ajvar for a well-rounded starter.
Tips: Watch closely towards the end of baking, as the cheese can brown quickly once softened. Serve immediately while warm and soft for the best texture.
Variations: Add a few cherry tomatoes to the baking dish for extra flavour. Serve with a spoonful of ajvar on the side.
Storage: Best eaten fresh; leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 1 day, though the texture changes.
Reheating: Reheat gently in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–8 minutes.
FAQs:
Q: What is sirenje?
A: A traditional Macedonian white brined cheese, similar to feta, made from cow's, sheep's or goat's milk.
Q: What is this dish typically served with?
A: Fresh bread and often a spoonful of ajvar or pindzur.
- Sirenje (or feta-style cheese), sliced — 300 g (10.5 oz)
- Olive oil — 2 tbsp
- Dried oregano — 1 tsp
- Crusty bread, to serve

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