Klepe are a traditional Bosnian delicacy that combine soft, homemade dough with a savory meat filling, all topped with a creamy yogurt-based sauce. This dish is perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or whenever you’re in the mood for a hearty and comforting meal. Here’s how to make them step by step.
To begin, you’ll need the following ingredients for the dough: 600 grams of flour, 2 eggs (one whole egg and an extra yolk), 1 level tablespoon of salt, 3 tablespoons of oil, and 250 milliliters of lukewarm water. For the filling, prepare 400 grams of ground meat, one finely chopped onion, a pinch of black pepper, salt to taste, and a tablespoon of your favorite seasoning mix, like Tajna. Finally, for the sauce, mix yogurt and sour cream in proportions you prefer, add a pinch of salt, and stir in two finely minced garlic cloves. You’ll also need some melted butter with a teaspoon of sweet paprika to drizzle on top.
Start by making the dough. Combine the flour, eggs, salt, oil, and water in a large bowl. Knead the mixture until it forms a soft, smooth dough. Wrap it in plastic or place it in a covered bowl and let it rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Mix the ground meat, onion, pepper, salt, and seasoning in a bowl, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
After the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface. Aim for a sheet that’s not too thin but still easy to work with. Using a pizza cutter or a knife, cut the dough into squares, approximately 5x5 cm in size. Place a small amount of the meat filling onto each square. Fold the squares into triangles, pressing the edges firmly to seal them. For extra security, brush the edges with egg white and use a fork to press them down, giving the klepe their signature look.
Bring about 2 liters of water to a boil in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt and a bit of oil to the water. Once it’s boiling, drop the klepe in, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. They need space to cook evenly. When the klepe rise to the surface, let them cook for an additional minute or two before carefully removing them with a slotted spoon.
As you take the klepe out, arrange them directly onto plates and pour the prepared yogurt sauce generously over them. To finish, melt a bit of butter in a small pan, stir in the paprika, and drizzle this fragrant mixture over the dish.
The result is a plate of steaming, tender klepe bathed in a tangy, garlicky sauce, and topped with a rich, buttery glaze. This combination of flavors and textures makes klepe an unforgettable meal. It’s a dish that brings people together, evoking the warmth and love of a homemade meal.
Whether you’re serving klepe to your family or introducing this Bosnian classic to friends, they’re sure to be a hit. Pair them with a fresh salad or enjoy them on their own—either way, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Happy cooking!
