Skutni Namaz z Rženim Kruhom (Cottage Cheese Spread with Rye Bread)

Name: Skutni Namaz z Rženim Kruhom (Cottage Cheese Spread with Rye Bread)
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Slovenia
Ingredients: Skuta (Slovenian cottage cheese) or well-drained ricotta — 300 g (1 1/3 cups); Sour cream — 80 g (1/3 cup); Finely chopped fresh chives — 2 tbsp; Small radish bunch, thinly sliced — 1/2; Pumpkin seed oil — 1 tbsp; Salt and black pepper, — to taste; Dark rye bread, to serve — 8 slices

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Servings

Ingredients

Skuta (Slovenian cottage cheese) or well-drained ricotta — 300 g (1 1/3 cups)
Sour cream — 80 g (1/3 cup)
Finely chopped fresh chives — 2 tbsp
Small radish bunch, thinly sliced — 1/2
Pumpkin seed oil — 1 tbsp
Salt and black pepper, — to taste
Dark rye bread, to serve — 8 slices

Method

In a mixing bowl, combine the skuta and sour cream, mashing gently with a fork until smooth and creamy.
Stir in most of the chives, reserving a little for garnish.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Spread the mixture generously over slices of rye bread.
Top with sliced radish, a drizzle of pumpkin seed oil, and the reserved chives before serving.

Introduction: Skuta, a soft fresh cottage cheese similar to farmer's cheese, is a staple of Slovenian Alpine dairies.

Cultural Background: Skuta, a soft fresh cottage cheese similar to farmer's cheese, is a staple of Slovenian Alpine dairies. Mixed simply with sour cream, chives and radish, skutni namaz turns humble dairy into a refreshing, protein-rich starter that has long been served in mountain huts and family kitchens alike, especially during warmer months when fresh herbs are abundant.

Tips: If using ricotta as a substitute, drain it in a sieve for 20 minutes first to match skuta's firmer texture. Pumpkin seed oil is a distinctly Slovenian ingredient — do not substitute with a neutral oil if possible.

Variations: Add finely chopped fresh dill or wild garlic in spring for a seasonal twist. A pinch of sweet paprika mixed in gives the spread a warmer colour and flavour. Vegetarian / Vegan Note Naturally vegetarian; for a vegan version, use a plant-based cream cheese and skip the dairy sour cream.

Storage: Refrigerate the spread (without bread) in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating: This dish is served cold and does not require reheating. Nutrition (Approx. per Serving) Approx. 240 kcal, 11 g protein, 14 g fat, 17 g carbohydrate per serving (2 slices).

FAQs:

Q: What is skuta?

A: Skuta is a soft, mild fresh cheese similar to cottage cheese or quark, widely used in Slovenian cooking.

Q: Can I make this ahead for a gathering?

A: Yes, prepare the spread up to a day ahead and assemble the bread just before serving to keep it crisp.