Perivani

Perivani refers to a traditional Greek dessert, particularly popular in the Peloponnese region. It is a sweet cheese pie, often made with a soft, fresh cheese that is a cross between feta and ricotta, or sometimes a blend of local cheeses. The pastry used is typically a thin, flaky dough, similar to phyllo or a homemade pasta dough stretched very thin.

The filling for perivani is usually sweetened with sugar and often flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, or citrus zest. Some recipes may include eggs to bind the cheese filling, while others rely solely on the cheese itself. The dessert is baked until the pastry is golden brown and crispy, and the filling is set and slightly caramelized.

Perivani can be served warm or at room temperature. It is often dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey before serving. Its texture is a delightful contrast between the crisp pastry and the creamy, sweet cheese filling. While the exact ingredients and preparation methods can vary from family to family and region to region, the essence of perivani remains a comforting and delicious sweet cheese pie.