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Urnebes (Serbian Spicy Cheese Spread)

Serbian · Snack · Easy

Urnebes (Serbian Spicy Cheese Spread)

Total
40 min
Prep
40 min
Serves
6
Calories
125
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Tangy white cheese turns orange with paprika and roasted pepper, making a fiery Serbian spread for bread or a spoonful beside grilled meat.

The name may be unfamiliar, but Urnebes (Serbian Spicy Cheese Spread) is straightforward to make: mash a salty cheese, add pepper and garlic, then let the heat develop in the fridge. It should hold a soft mound rather than pour.

Feta gives an accessible version of the brined white cheese used in Serbia. Drain the roasted pepper well and add the chili gradually; the garlic becomes stronger as the spread rests.

SpicyCreamyTangyNo CookPartyGluten-freeNut-freeEgg-freeLow-carbKeto

Method

  1. Mash feta and sour cream with a fork until spreadable, leaving a few small cheese pieces for texture.

  2. Pat roasted red peppers dry, then stir them into the cheese with garlic, paprika and red pepper flakes until evenly colored.

  3. Cover and refrigerate for to let the flavors settle. Stir once more and spoon into a small serving bowl.

Forkue tips

  • For a vegetarian spread, choose feta made with vegetarian rennet; no vegetarian label is assumed here.
  • If the feta is very salty, replace a small portion with well-drained ricotta to soften the edge.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate covered for 3 days. Stir before serving and let stand briefly at room temperature so the cheese is easier to spread.

Kitchen gear

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Nutrition per serving, estimated

125Calories
6gProtein
3gCarbs
10gFat

Photo: Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons (cropped and enhanced)

Urnebes (Serbian Spicy Cheese Spread): FAQ

Can I make urnebes less spicy?

Yes. Reduce the red pepper flakes and keep the sweet paprika and roasted pepper. You will still get the characteristic orange color and pepper flavor.

What do I serve with urnebes?

Bread, grilled patties and roasted potatoes all work well. Its salt and heat are concentrated, so serve small spoonfuls alongside the main food.

How do I store and reheat Urnebes (Serbian Spicy Cheese Spread)?

Refrigerate covered for 3 days. Stir before serving and let stand briefly at room temperature so the cheese is easier to spread.

How long does Urnebes (Serbian Spicy Cheese Spread) take?

About 40 min in total: 40 min prep and 0 min cooking.

What do I need to make Urnebes (Serbian Spicy Cheese Spread)?

The key ingredients are feta, sour cream, roasted red peppers, garlic, paprika and red pepper flakes, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Urnebes (Serbian Spicy Cheese Spread)?

For a vegetarian spread, choose feta made with vegetarian rennet; no vegetarian label is assumed here.

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