Mini pies with pickled cabbage

Mini cabbage pies - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12 mini pies

Looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe? Mini cabbage pies are the perfect choice! These pastry delights filled with quality cabbage are ideal for a snack, appetizer, or even as part of a lunch. Sauerkraut not only adds a delicious taste but is also an excellent source of probiotics, beneficial for digestion. So, let’s put on our aprons and discover together how to make these wonderful pies!

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 grams of flour
- 1/3 cube of fresh yeast
- 1 cup of lukewarm water
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of oil (preferably sunflower oil, but you can also use olive oil for a stronger flavor)

For the filling:
- A bowl of sauerkraut (approximately 400-500 grams)
- Oil for sautéing the cabbage

Preparing the dough:

1. Start by placing the flour in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and add the crumbled yeast. Pour the lukewarm water over the yeast and let it sit for 30 minutes. This is when the yeast will activate its rising power, and the dough will become fluffy and airy.

2. Once the yeast has started working, add the salt and oil. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. If necessary, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, so the dough doesn’t become too dense.

3. Once the dough is kneaded properly, cover it with a clean towel and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 40 minutes. This will help the dough become easier to handle and develop a pleasant texture.

Preparing the filling:

1. Rinse the sauerkraut under cold running water to remove excess salt. Squeeze it well to eliminate excess water.

2. In a pan, heat a little oil. Add the cabbage and sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The cabbage is ready when it becomes slightly browned and soft, about 10-15 minutes. You can add spices like pepper or thyme to enhance the flavors.

Shaping the pies:

1. After the dough has rested in the refrigerator, roll it out on a floured surface until you get a thin sheet, about 0.5 cm thick.

2. Cut the dough into squares of about 10 cm. In the center of each square, add a tablespoon of sautéed cabbage.

3. Pinch the corners of the dough square and bring them to the center, then gently press to seal the filling inside. You can shape them into little parcels or simply fold them like mini pies.

4. Place the mini pies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to rise during baking.

Baking:

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. You can brush them with a little oil or beaten egg for a more golden and shiny appearance.

2. Bake the pies for about 15 minutes or until they become golden and crispy. The aroma that will spread in the kitchen will make it hard to wait for them to cool down!

Serving:

Mini cabbage pies are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them with a fine sour cream or a yogurt sauce with dill to add a fresh touch. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a cold craft beer.

Useful tips:

- If you want a vegetarian option, you can also add sautéed mushrooms to the filling.
- These pies can be frozen after baking. It is recommended to defrost them naturally and reheat them in the oven to regain their crispy texture.
- You can also experiment with other fillings, such as cottage cheese or minced meat, depending on your preferences.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

A serving of mini pies contains about 200-250 calories, depending on the oil used and the amount of filling. Sauerkraut is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. It is also an excellent source of probiotics, which contribute to digestive health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sauerkraut?
- Of course! Fresh cabbage will require a longer cooking time but will offer a crispy texture and fresh flavor.

2. How can I make the dough less caloric?
- You can replace some of the oil with Greek yogurt to reduce calories and make the dough softer.

3. What are the best combinations to serve these pies?
- Use them as an appetizer at a family meal or as a snack alongside a warm vegetable soup.

These mini cabbage pies are not only a delicious choice but also a way to bring a touch of comfort and warmth to every meal. Enjoy every bite and feel inspired to experiment with various fillings and combinations. Bon appétit!