Light pastries for every moment of the day

Easy Pies for Every Moment of the Day

Who doesn't love a warm, steaming pie filled with delicious fillings? This easy pie recipe is perfect for any time of the day – from an energizing breakfast to a savory appetizer or a sweet dessert. Let's dive into the world of pies and discover together how to achieve a perfect result!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 20-24 pies

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 600 g of flour (preferably type 000 for a fine texture)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (about 10 g)
- 3 eggs (at room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1 cup of buttermilk (about 250 ml, can be replaced with yogurt)
- A pinch of salt
- Warm water, as needed

For the filling:
- Apples (diced), cheese, minced meat, roasted pumpkin or spinach (choose according to taste)
- Sour cream, for serving
- Tart jam (optional, for sweet pies)

The History of Pies

Pies have a rich and diverse history, being a dish cooked in various cultures over the centuries. They have been used as ingenious methods of preserving food, as well as a way to enjoy seasonal ingredients. Over time, pies have evolved, and their recipes have adapted to local culinary preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a large bowl, sift the flour to eliminate any impurities and to aerate the ingredient. Add the baking powder and mix lightly.
2. In another bowl, beat the eggs together with the oil, salt, and buttermilk until well combined. This mixture will give the dough a soft and fluffy texture.
3. Incorporate the egg mixture into the bowl with flour and gradually add warm water, stirring continuously until you achieve an elastic and homogeneous dough. Don't be afraid to get your hands a little dirty – it's part of the fun of cooking!

Step 2: Let the Dough Rest
1. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 3: Shape and Fill the Pies
1. Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface. Take a small portion of dough (about a handful) and shape it into a ball. Then, use a rolling pin to roll out the dough as thin as possible.
2. Add your preferred filling to one half of the dough circle. Whether you opt for apples, cheese, meat, or pumpkin, make sure not to overload the pie to avoid the filling spilling out during baking.
3. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal the pie well. You can use a fork to create a nice pattern on the edges.

Step 4: Bake the Pies
1. Preheat a non-stick pan over low heat and grease it with a little oil. Place the pies in the pan, making sure not to overlap them.
2. Bake the pies for about 5 minutes on each side or until they become golden and crispy. If you notice the pan getting too hot, reduce the heat to avoid burning them.

Serving and Suggestions

Pies are delicious warm, but also cold, as my grandmother used to say: "Whatever is baked, bring it here!" Serve them with a spoonful of sour cream or, for sweet pies, with a tart jam that perfectly complements the flavor. Also, apple pies pair wonderfully with a fragrant tea made from cinnamon stick and rooibos.

Variations and Tips

- For fillings: Experiment with different fillings such as roasted pumpkin with a dash of cinnamon or melted cheese mixed with fresh herbs.
- For an even flakier dough: You can replace some of the water with milk or add a few tablespoons of yogurt to the dough.
- Storing pies: If you don’t consume them immediately, store them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the microwave or in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

Nutritional Benefits

These pies are a versatile choice, offering a mix of carbohydrates from flour, proteins from eggs, and fillings rich in vitamins and minerals. Depending on the chosen fillings, you can achieve a nutritionally balanced dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace some of the white flour with whole wheat flour to add fiber and nutrients.

2. What other fillings can I try?
You can experiment with fillings of mushrooms, olives, or even sweet combinations like cottage cheese with raisins.

3. How can I make the pies less greasy?
You can bake the pies in the oven instead of frying them, using a tray lined with baking paper.

Regardless of the chosen filling, easy pies are an excellent choice to bring a touch of joy to every day. Enjoy your meal!