Meat, mushroom, and greens pie

Meat, Mushroom, and Greens Pastries

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing delicious pastries filled with meat, mushrooms, and greens, perfect for any occasion. These little treats are not only simple and filling but also extremely versatile. You can enjoy them warm, but they are also great to take along for the office or on hikes. Let's start our culinary adventure!

A Story about Pastries

Pastries are a popular choice in many cultures, representing a combination of flaky dough and rich filling. This recipe blends tradition with modernity, offering a delicious variant that can be adapted to individual preferences. Their origins are lost in the mists of time, but their essence remains unchanged: the joy of sharing delicious meals with loved ones.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Rising time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
- Number of servings: 30 pastries

Ingredients

For the Dough:
- 5 g dry yeast (in a packet)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup (approximately 250 ml) warm water
- Flour (as needed)
- 1 pinch of sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:
- 300 g minced meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 egg
- Jarred mushrooms (optional, to taste)
- A few sprigs of parsley and dill (finely chopped)

Additionally:
- 1 beaten egg (for brushing)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and add a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.

2. Forming the Dough: In a large bowl, add the salt and olive oil. Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl and start adding flour gradually. Mix well with a spatula or your hands until the dough becomes smooth and pulls away from your hands. It is important not to add too much flour at once; the dough should be soft but not sticky.

3. Rising the Dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling

1. Cooking the Meat: In a frying pan, heat a little olive oil. Add the minced meat and season with salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the meat is nicely browned.

2. Adding Ingredients: Once the meat is cooked, let it cool slightly. Add the beaten egg, mushrooms (if using), and chopped greens. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Forming the Pastries

1. Rolling out the Dough: After the dough has risen, knead it slightly to release the air. Then, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a suitable thickness (about 2-3 mm).

2. Cutting Circles: Using a glass or a pastry cutter, cut circles from the dough.

3. Filling: Place a circle of dough on a work surface. Add a tablespoon of the meat filling in the center. If desired, add mushrooms and greens for extra flavor. Cover with another circle of dough and gently press the edges to seal.

4. Forming the Pastries: Using a fork, press the edges to seal them well and add a decorative touch. If desired, you can cut again with the glass to remove excess dough.

Step 4: Baking

1. Preparing the Tray: Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush them with the beaten egg for a golden, appetizing crust.

2. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the pastries for 25 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.

3. Cooling and Serving: After baking, let the pastries cool slightly before serving. They are delicious both warm and at room temperature.

Practical Tips

- Filling Variations: You can experiment with various fillings, such as cheese, vegetables, or even combinations of meat and cheese. Each variant will bring a unique taste to the pastries.

- Storage: If you have leftover pastries, you can keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. They can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave.

- Serving: These pastries are great as appetizers at parties or gatherings. You can serve them with yogurt or sour cream sauces for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional Benefits

Pastries are a good source of protein from the meat, while mushrooms and greens provide beneficial vitamins and minerals. Whole wheat flour (if chosen) can add fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use chicken for the filling?
Yes, chicken is an excellent choice for the filling! Just make sure it is well cooked.

- How can I make the dough without yeast?
You can use baking soda or baking powder as a leavening agent. Adjust the liquid amount to achieve the right consistency.

- What other recipes can I try with this dough?
This dough is perfect for pizza, pies, or pastries. Experiment with different fillings to discover new favorites!

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this recipe for meat, mushroom, and greens pastries! They are more than just an appetizer; they are an opportunity to create unforgettable moments with loved ones. Whether you enjoy them with family or share them with friends, these pastries will always bring a smile to the faces of those who taste them. Enjoy your meal!