Transylvanian pies

Transylvanian Pies - A Traditional Delicacy Cooked with Love

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 45-60 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 pies

Who hasn’t dreamed of a steaming pie with a tasty filling that brings back memories of family meals? Transylvanian pies are a traditional delight, full of flavor and warmth, often associated with special moments spent with loved ones. These pies are not just a delicious dish but also a way to bring tradition into modern cuisine.

Necessary Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 1/2 cube of fresh yeast (about 25 g)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 250 ml lukewarm water
- 50 ml oil

For the filling:
- 300 g grated telemea cheese (preferably well-drained)
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- A bunch of fresh dill, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
- Oil for frying

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Dough
The first essential step is to take care of the dough. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the salt and sugar. In another container, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm water. Make sure the water is not too hot, or else the yeast will be destroyed. Add the yeast mixture to the bowl with the flour, along with the oil.

Making space on the countertop, knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process should take about 10 minutes. Once the dough is ready, form it into a ball, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes. I recommend placing it in a draft-free area to provide the best conditions for rising.

2. Preparing the Filling
In the meantime, take care of the filling. In a bowl, combine the grated telemea cheese with the egg yolks, sour cream, and chopped dill. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. Taste the mixture and adjust the salt to your liking. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can also add a bit of freshly ground pepper.

3. Forming the Pies
After the dough has risen, divide it into small pieces the size of a ping-pong ball. On a lightly oiled work surface, roll each piece of dough into a thin disc. Place a tablespoon of the cheese filling in the center and fold the dough, sealing the edges well. It is important to ensure that the pie is well sealed so that it does not open during frying.

Use a knife to make a small incision in the center of each pie, which will allow steam to escape during frying.

4. Frying the Pies
In a deep pan, add enough oil to cover the bottom. Heat the oil well, then add the pies one by one, being careful not to crowd them. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they become golden and crispy.

Once they are ready, remove the pies to a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

Serving and Suggestions
Transylvanian pies are delicious both hot and cold. You can serve them alongside a glass of buttermilk, which will add a refreshing note and balance the flavor of the cheese. Also, if you enjoy beer, the pies pair wonderfully with a cold beer, especially when enjoying an evening with friends.

Tips and Variations
If you want to innovate, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cottage cheese or ricotta. You can also add other herbs to the filling, such as basil or dried dill. Additionally, you can make smaller pies, ideal for appetizers, perfect for parties or gatherings with friends.

Nutritional Benefits
These pies provide a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs used in the filling. Dill adds not only flavor but also antioxidants. However, it is important to consume these pies in moderation, considering that frying in oil can add extra calories.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the amount of water, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

2. How can I make the pies healthier?
You can bake the pies instead of frying them, brushing them with a little oil and baking them in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes.

3. Can the pies be frozen?
Yes, the pies can be frozen. Make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in freezer bags. You can reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.

Personal Note
I would like to share with you that Transylvanian pies have always been a symbol of warmth and hospitality in my family. I remember the moments when we gathered around the table, enjoying these delicacies while stories flowed freely. I encourage you to bring your friends and family around the table, savor these pies together, and create unforgettable memories.

So, don’t hesitate to try this simple yet delicious recipe, enjoy each step of the cooking process, and share the result with your loved ones. Bon appétit!