Cheese and dill pies

The dough for pies is the first essential step in preparing these delicious snacks. We start by rubbing the yeast with sugar until it completely dissolves, creating a smooth paste. This will activate the yeast, helping the dough to rise and become fluffy. In a large bowl, we put the sifted flour, which will give structure to the pie, then add salt, essential for balancing the flavors. Once the yeast has dissolved, we add it to the bowl along with the yogurt, which will add moisture and a slight tangy taste. We mix the ingredients gently by hand, then begin to gradually add water while constantly mixing. It is important to pay attention to the consistency of the dough; it should be non-sticky, soft, and elastic. Once we achieve this texture, we add the oil, which will provide extra juiciness to the pies. We cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in volume.

Meanwhile, we take care of the filling. In a bowl, we knead the cottage cheese well to make it creamier. Then we add grated cheese and parmesan, which will give it an intense flavor. We season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, and add finely chopped fresh dill for a touch of freshness. We carefully mix all the ingredients, ensuring they are well integrated.

After the dough has risen, we divide it into nine equal balls, which we shape by hand. On a floured work surface, we take the first ball and roll it out into a round sheet, thin enough. We put a portion of filling in the middle of the sheet, then bring the edges of the dough over the filling, forming a well-sealed pie. We gently press the edges to ensure that the filling does not leak during baking. We continue this process with the other balls of dough.

We heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and bake the pies, one by one, on both sides. We start with the folded side to ensure they brown evenly. After a few minutes, we turn the pies to the other side and let them bake until golden. Once they are ready, we take them out onto a platter, where we let them cool slightly. These pies are delicious both warm and at room temperature, making them ideal to be served as an appetizer or snack. Enjoy them with a yogurt or sour cream dip for an unforgettable culinary experience!