Croatian Savory Cabbage Strudel (Strudla s Kupusom)

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Gather the ingredients.

2. Step 2

   Place shredded cabbage and sliced onion in a large nonmetallic bowl and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon salt. Mix and let sit for 2 hours. Drain and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.

3. Step 3

   Fry bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Remove bacon and reserve, and sauté cabbage, onion, and sugar in bacon fat, adding more oil, butter, or lard if necessary. When cabbage is tender, mix in reserved bacon and season to taste.

4. Step 4

   Turn cooked cabbage out onto a sheet pan and spread out to cool to lukewarm. Divide phyllo dough into 2 piles (7 sheets each). Keep covered with plastic wrap or a clean towel at all times.

5. Step 5

   Heat oven to 375 F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper . Place another piece of parchment paper on a work surface and lay down 1 sheet of phyllo dough; brush lightly with oil, melted butter, or melted lard. Top with another sheet of phyllo dough and brush. Continue until all 7 sheets are used.

6. Step 6

   Place half of the cabbage mixture in a 3-inch-wide strip on the bottom 1/3 of the phyllo dough. Fold in left and right sides and brush with oil. Roll phyllo away from you, using parchment paper to assist. Place log seam-side down on prepared baking sheet and brush outside with oil, butter, or lard. Repeat with remaining phyllo and filling, making a second log.

7. Step 7

   Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until golden. Let stand 15 minutes before cutting.

8. Step 8

   Serve with plain yogurt or sour cream, if desired, and enjoy.