Description
The Idrijski Zlikrofi TSG are potato ravioli consisting of a flour-based pasta, eggs, oil and water or milk, stuffed with potatoes, onions, fat and spices.
Production Area
The tradition of Idrijski Zlikrofi TSG originated in the municipal area of Idrija, but later spread in the entire Slovenian region.
Production Method
The pasta is obtained by mixing and processing the ingredients until achieving soft and elastic dough, which must be shaped in blocks, covered with oil and then left to rest for at least half an hour. After, the pasta must be rolled out until achieving a thickness of about 2 mm. The potatoes for stuffing must be boiled and then mashed when still hot. Onion must be added to the dough and has to be previously cooked in lard fat from minced smoked bacon. Plus, spices and aromatic herbs like marjoram and chive are added. After having obtained the right compactness, the stuffing is shaped in small spheres with a diameter of about 1 cm which must be laid on the pasta. Then the pasta is bond on the stuffing and must cover it uniformly. The distance of a finger has to be left between the spheres, sufficient to press the pasta and seal its borders obtaining the shape of an ear. The final characteristic shape of Idrijski Zlikrofi TSG is obtained by slightly press every ravioli piece.
Appearance and Flavour
Idrijski Zlikrofi TSG are hat-shaped. The colour of the pasta is uniform yellow and its consistency is soft and light. The aroma is strong and the hints of spices are not too dominant.
History
Idrijski Zlikrofi TSG has a doubtful origin. As wrote in the book Fond Doprinos k zgodovini Idrije in 1956 by Karl Bezek, the product was imported in the Idrija area in 1814, even though the shape and the recipe which are still today their characteristic can be found starting from the middle of the same century, when it seems that these raw ravioli were sold to the public. In any case, the fame of these ravioli is confirmed by many documents from the 20th century, which speak of this product as an important dish to serve above all on special occasions and famous in the majority of Slovenia.
Gastronomy
Idrijski Zlikrofi TSG, when fresh, have to be stored in the lowest shelf of refrigerator, in their original packaging. The product must be eaten after cooking in boiling water. Idrijski Zlikrofi TSG are cooked in a short time and must be served immediately after draining. According to tradition, this stuffed pasta is perfect with the bakalca, a sauce with ovine meat and vegetables.
Marketing
The product is sold as Idrijski Zlikrofi TSG. It is sold both fresh and frozen.
Distinctive Features
Idrijski Zlikrofi TSG, in addition to the extraordinary aroma due to the special potato stuffing, are characterised by their shape which recalls the old berets of French generals, the so-called "Napoleon berets".
