Cabbage Pies

Yeast is an essential ingredient in making many doughs, and for this delicious cabbage pie recipe, it is important to activate it correctly. Start by crushing the yeast in a small bowl, mixing it with sugar and a tablespoon of flour. This mixture will help activate the yeast. Then, add lukewarm water, being careful not to make it too hot, so as not to destroy the yeast. Let the mixture sit in a warm place for about 10 minutes until a light foam forms on the surface, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to give you a light and fluffy dough.

In a larger bowl, place the flour and make a well in the center. Pour the yeast mixture into the well, then start mixing with your hands, gradually incorporating the flour. Add the salt and butter, which should be at room temperature to incorporate easily. Knead the dough for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Once you achieve a pleasant consistency, place the dough in a bowl covered with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in volume.

Meanwhile, you can prepare the cabbage filling. Cut the cabbage into thin strips and add it over the finely chopped onion that has been sautéed in oil until it becomes translucent. Let the cabbage soften, adding a cup of water to facilitate the process. Once the cabbage is soft, add a tablespoon of tomato paste and pepper, mixing well. When the cabbage is cooked, turn off the heat and add salt and chopped dill, mixing until well combined. Let the filling cool completely before using it.

After the dough has risen, roll it out with a rolling pin on a surface dusted with flour, achieving an even thickness. Cut it into squares of about 8-9 cm, depending on the desired size of the pies. In the center of each square, place one and a half tablespoons of cabbage filling. Gather the corners of the dough to form a pouch or you can choose to roll the dough, creating a rolled pie.

Prepare a baking tray greased with butter and place the pies in it, leaving a small space between them to allow for expansion during baking. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the pies for about 35 minutes or until they become golden and crispy on the surface. The aroma that will fill your kitchen during baking will be irresistible, and the pies, served warm, will be a true delight for family and friends.