Crown with minced meat

The delicious crown with minced meat is a special recipe, perfect for bringing a touch of festivity to any meal. This recipe is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a visual feast, ideal for special occasions or gatherings with family and friends. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, the crown will surely become the star of your table.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

A brief history of the crown with minced meat
Crowns and tarts with various fillings are a culinary tradition found in many cultures, each with its unique variations. These dishes have often been associated with festivities and holiday meals, serving to bring people together around the table. In this recipe, I pay homage to this tradition with a combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients.

Ingredients for 2 crowns

*For the dough:*
- 150 g margarine (you can also use butter for a richer taste)
- 300 g flour
- 1 egg (preferably at room temperature for better incorporation)
- a pinch of salt
- half a packet of dry yeast (about 7 g)
- 50 ml lukewarm water (not hot, to activate the yeast)

*For the filling:*
- 500 g minced meat (you can use beef, pork, or a combination)
- 2 small onions (finely chopped)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (crushed or finely chopped)
- 3 carrots (grated on a fine grater)
- 1 egg + 1 egg white (the yolk will be used for brushing)
- 200 g pickled peppers (finely chopped)
- a handful of fresh parsley (finely chopped)

Preparing the crown

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, mix the flour with the salt and dry yeast. Add the cubed margarine and rub it in with your fingers until you get a crumbly mixture. Gradually add the egg and lukewarm water, kneading until you obtain a homogeneous and elastic dough. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, until it doubles in size.

2. Preparing the filling:
In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced meat and let it brown, stirring frequently. Incorporate the grated carrots and cook for a few more minutes. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool, then add the pickled peppers, parsley, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

3. Forming the crown:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. On a floured work surface, roll out each piece of dough into a round sheet. Use a cake pan to cut the dough to the desired size. Place one sheet of dough in the center of a baking tray lined with parchment paper. On the edge, place the meat filling, spreading it evenly.

4. Creating the crown shape:
From the center of the dough, cut 8 triangles (in the shape of rays) and fold them over the filling, pressing the edges to stick well. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Brush the crown with the egg yolk and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an attractive appearance and wonderful taste.

5. Baking:
Bake the crown in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Check occasionally to avoid burning. When ready, let it cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a round plate for serving.

Serving suggestions:
The crown can be served warm or at room temperature. You can decorate the center with slices of fresh cucumbers or a few fried sausages arranged in a flower shape for a cheerful appearance. This will not only look good but also add extra flavor to the meal.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can try different fillings, such as sautéed mushrooms, cheese and dill, or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option. You can also add spices like paprika or red pepper to give a more intense flavor to the filling.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of crown contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Minced meat is a good source of protein, while the vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins. Parsley, for example, is rich in vitamin K and antioxidants, thus contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken meat? Yes, you can use minced chicken, and the crown will have a lighter taste.
- How can I store the crown? You can store the crown in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
- What drinks pair well with this crown? A crown with minced meat pairs excellently with a glass of dry white wine or a craft beer.

This minced meat crown recipe is not just a simple meal, but a culinary experience that will bring joy and good cheer around the table. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its unique aroma!