Mushroom pastries

Mushroom Pastries: A Crispy and Savory Delight

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I present you with a simple yet amazing recipe: mushroom pastries. These savory snacks are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party or just want a quick and delicious meal. With a flavorful filling and a fluffy dough, these pastries are sure to become your favorites.

A Bit of History

Pastries are a cherished culinary tradition in many cultures, with deep historical roots. They were originally created as a method to preserve meat or vegetables but have evolved over time into sophisticated dishes full of diverse flavors and textures. The mushroom filling adds a rustic and hearty touch, transforming these pastries into a true indulgence.

Recipe Information

- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 45-50 minutes
- Number of servings: 5 pastries

Ingredients

*For the dough:*
- 250 g flour
- 60 ml warm milk
- 60 ml warm water
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 egg
- 5 g dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt

*For the mushroom filling:*
- 250 g fresh mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil, for sautéing

*For brushing the pastries:*
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the filling

1. In a skillet, add 1-2 tablespoons of oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent.
2. Add the chopped mushrooms and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mushrooms release their water.
3. After about 5 minutes, add 100-150 ml of water and let it boil. Continue cooking until the water has completely evaporated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure the filling is not too wet to avoid soggy dough. Allow it to cool.

Step 2: Preparing the dough

*Manual method:*

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour with dry yeast and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the yeast.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the warm water and milk, along with the oil and egg.
3. Start kneading the dough by hand until it becomes smooth and elastic. This may take about 8-10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size (about 1 hour).

*Bread machine method:*

1. Add the liquid ingredients (milk, water, oil) to the bread machine, followed by the salt, flour, and yeast.
2. Set the machine to the kneading and rising program, and wait until the dough is ready.

Step 3: Forming the pastries

1. Once the dough has risen, divide it into 5 equal balls.
2. Using a rolling pin, roll each ball into a circle about 15 cm in diameter.
3. On half of the circle, place a spoonful of the mushroom filling. Ensure there is a free area at the edges to seal the pastry.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a crescent, and press the edges well to seal. You can use a fork to create a pattern on the edges and ensure a tight seal.

Step 4: Baking the pastries

1. Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let them rise for 20 minutes in a warm place.
2. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C.
3. Mix the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of milk and brush each pastry with this mixture for a golden and appetizing crust.
4. Bake the pastries for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Mushroom pastries are excellent both warm and cold. You can serve them alongside a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt dip, which will perfectly complement the flavors. Additionally, a glass of white wine or tomato juice will make this meal an unforgettable culinary experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned mushrooms?
Yes, you can use canned mushrooms, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess water.

2. How can I vary the filling?
You can add feta cheese or dill to the mushroom filling for extra flavor. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

3. How long can I keep the pastries?
Baked pastries can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to keep them longer, I recommend freezing them and reheating in the oven before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

Mushrooms are an excellent source of plant-based protein, vitamins (especially B and D), and minerals (such as selenium and potassium). This makes them not only delicious but also healthy. The whole wheat flour used in the dough can add extra fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Preparing these mushroom pastries is a joyful activity that brings family and friends together at the table. With a perfect combination of ingredients and a simple technique, you will manage to prepare a delicious appetizer or snack that will impress everyone. Don't forget to experiment and put your personal touch on the recipe! Enjoy your meal!