The pies on the slab of Menuca

Menuca's Stone-Baked Pies Preparation time: 30 minutes Rising time: 1 hour Baking time: 20-25 minutes Total: 1 hour 55 minutes Number of servings: 17 pies Today, I invite you to discover a special recipe, full of tradition and flavor: Menuca's stone-baked pies. These delicious pies are a perfect combination of aromas and textures, blending soft dough with various fillings, reminding you of warm moments spent with family around the table. The origins of these pies are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, and each bite will transport you to a world of rich and comforting flavors. Ingredients: For the dough: - 1 kg wheat flour (preferably type 000 for a fine texture) - 60 g fresh yeast - 1 teaspoon sugar - 2 tablespoons oil (olive or sunflower) - Warm water (about 500 ml, depending on the humidity of the flour) For the fillings (you can choose one or more combinations): - Sautéed apples (about 500 g of peeled and chopped apples) - Sweet cow cheese (300 g) - Sautéed cabbage (300 g, with a little pepper) - Focsani cheese (300 g) Step by step: 1. Preparing the dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast with a teaspoon of sugar and 100 ml of warm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes until a foam forms. This is proof that the yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise. 2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast, oil, and the remaining warm water. Start mixing with a spatula or with your hands until the dough begins to come together. 3. Kneading the dough: Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and homogeneous. It is important for the dough to be slightly softer but not sticky. If necessary, add a little water or flour, depending on the desired consistency. 4. First rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place for about 1 hour, until the dough doubles in volume. 5. Dividing the dough: After the dough has risen, transfer it to a work surface greased with a little oil. Divide it into 17 pieces of about 100 g each. Shape each piece into a ball and let them rise again, covered, for 20-30 minutes. 6. Preparing the fillings: While waiting, prepare the fillings. For sautéed apples, cut the apples into cubes and sauté them in a pan with a little oil and cinnamon until they become soft. For cabbage, sauté the chopped cabbage with oil and pepper until it becomes soft. Sweet cheese and Focsani cheese can be used as is, but you can mix them with an egg for a creamier texture. 7. Forming the pies: Take each ball of dough and roll it out on the greased surface into a disc shape. Place a tablespoon of your chosen filling in the center of the dough. Fold the dough in half and seal the edges well, ensuring that the filling does not leak out during baking. 8. Baking on stone: Heat the stone over low heat and bake the pies, 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy. If you do not have a stone, you can use a non-stick pan. 9. Serving: The pies are served warm, alongside creamy yogurt or sour cream. If you want to add a touch of sweetness, a tablespoon of honey or fruit jam will perfectly complement the flavors. Practical tip: To achieve perfect pies, make sure the dough is well-kneaded and allowed to rise sufficiently. Also, do not overfill the pies, or you risk them opening during baking. Frequently asked questions: - Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use 20 g of dry yeast, adding it directly to the flour. - What other fillings can I use? Experiment with sautéed mushrooms, spinach and feta cheese, or even fruit jams for a sweet version. - Can I freeze the pies? Yes, unbaked pies can be frozen. Make sure to place them in a single layer on a tray, then transfer them to freezer bags. Nutritional benefits: The pies are a good source of carbohydrates thanks to the flour, and the fillings provide vitamins and minerals. For example, apples offer fiber and antioxidants, while cabbage is rich in vitamin C. This stone-baked pie recipe is not just a delicious dish but also an opportunity to connect with culinary traditions and create special moments with loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy every step of this creative process! Savor the joy of cooking and don't forget to share the results with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!

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