Roses and Clever Roll 'Martisor' with Red Beet - Lenten Dish

Roses and Clever Roll "Mărțișor" with Red Beet - Lent Dish

Are you dreaming of a lent meal that delights you with unique flavors and vibrant colors? Then this recipe is exactly what you're looking for! The clever roll "Mărțișor" with red beet, adorned with fluffy roses, is not only a delicious choice but also a true feast for the eyes. Inspired by family culinary traditions, this recipe combines seasonal vegetables with a simple yet innovative preparation technique.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

For the basic dough (for two rolls):
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1 kg flour
- 100 ml oil
- 50 g fresh yeast
- 100 g raw sunflower seeds
- Poppy seeds for decoration
- Warm water (approximately 300 ml)

Red beet filling:
- 1 kg red beet
- 500 g apples
- 100 ml oil
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- Pickled pepper vinegar (approximately 50 ml)
- Pepper and salt, to taste
- 3 heaping tablespoons semolina

Carrot and celery filling:
- 3 carrots
- 1 large celery
- 100 ml oil
- A handful of raisins
- Pepper and salt, to taste
- 2 heaping teaspoons curry powder
- 3 heaping tablespoons semolina

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Boil the potatoes: Start by boiling the potatoes in salted water until soft. Once cooked, let them cool, then mash them well.
2. Activate the yeast: Dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with flour, oil, sunflower seeds, activated yeast, and a pinch of salt. Knead the dough well until it becomes elastic and homogeneous. If necessary, add a little warm water to achieve the right consistency.
4. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30-40 minutes until it doubles in volume.

Step 2: Preparing the Fillings

Red beet filling:

1. Grate the beet and apples: Use a large grater to grate the red beet and apples.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a pan, add the oil and sauté the beet and apples over low heat, adding salt, cumin, and pepper. Stir occasionally.
3. Add liquid: If the beet doesn't soften enough, add a little potato water. Once the mixture is well cooked, add the vinegar and semolina. Let it cool uncovered.

Carrot and celery filling:

1. Grate the carrots and celery: Grate the carrots and celery on the same large grater.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a pan, add the oil and sauté the carrots and celery with salt, pepper, curry, and raisins. Avoid adding water to keep the filling as dry as possible. Once nearly done, add the semolina and let it cool uncovered.

Step 3: Forming the Rolls

1. Divide the dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. From each piece, set aside a small ball of dough to form the lattice on top of the roll.
2. Shape the rolls: Roll out each piece of dough and fill it with the desired filling. Roll tightly and place the rolls in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
3. Create the lattices: From the reserved dough balls, roll out and cut thin strips to place on top of the rolls, forming a decorative lattice.
4. Decorate: Sprinkle poppy seeds on top for an attractive appearance.

Step 4: Baking

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 180°C (low heat) and let it preheat.
2. Bake the rolls: Place the rolls in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes. For the first 15 minutes, leave them in the oven on low heat, then increase the temperature to achieve a golden and crispy crust.

Step 5: Serving

After the rolls are baked, let them cool slightly before cutting. They can be served warm or cold, for breakfast, as a snack, or even as an appetizer at a festive meal. These rolls are not only delicious but also very visually appealing, being a true feast for the eyes!

Chef's Tip

For an extra flavor boost, you can add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the fillings. You can also experiment with different types of fillings, such as sautéed sauerkraut with nuts or mushrooms with potatoes. This recipe offers versatility, allowing you to adapt the ingredients according to your preferences or the season.

Nutritional Benefits

Red beet is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. Apples add fiber to your diet, while carrots and celery provide an excellent source of beta-carotene and vitamins. This lent recipe is not only delicious but also healthy!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other vegetables in the filling?
Yes, you can experiment with your favorite vegetables. Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini are excellent options!

2. How can I store the rolls?
The rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, sealed in an airtight container.

3. Can the rolls be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.

Recommended Pairings

These delicious rolls pair perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad or a yogurt sauce with dill. A natural fruit drink or a flavored tea will perfectly complement the meal.

Transform your lent meal into a culinary feast with this captivating recipe for Roses and Clever Roll "Mărțișor" with red beet. Not only will it delight your taste buds, but it will also bring a touch of magic to your table!