Syrniki

1. Strain or process quark cheese through a sieve or meat grinder to achieve a powdery consistency. Mix quark cheese, 2/3 cup flour, sugar, raisins, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt together in a bowl until batter is well mixed.

2. Pour 1/4 cup flour into a small bowl.

3. Roll batter, about 2 tablespoons per serving, into a ball and roll in flour until coated. Flatten each ball into a 2-inch patty, squaring off the edges.

4. Heat about 1 1/2 tablespoons oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Fry patties, working in batches, in the hot oil until dark brown and a shell has formed, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with remaining oil and patties.

Cook' Note:

For some, the amount of white sugar and vanilla extract is not enough. If you have a serious sweet tooth, I would add double the vanilla extract and 2 more spoons of white sugar.

Substitute tvorog or cottage cheese (drained and no added sugar) for the quark if desired.