Suberec (Turkish Pie)

Suberec - Delicious Meat Pies

I invite you to discover a special recipe, full of flavor and tradition: Suberec, a pie that delights the taste buds of many people from different corners of the world. This recipe, although it may seem simple, brings a rich taste and a crispy texture, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, at a family meal, or simply as a snack, Suberec are a fantastic choice.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Number of servings: 15 large pies

Ingredients
For the dough:
- 800 g flour
- 400-450 ml warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 350 ml oil (for frying)

For the filling:
- 400-500 g minced pork (or lamb, as preferred)
- 3 medium onions
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 egg

Preparing the Dough
1. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt. Then, gradually add the warm water, mixing with a spoon or by hand to form a dough. It is important that the dough is soft but not sticky, so adjust the amount of water according to the type of flour used.

2. Resting the dough: Once the dough is well combined, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for about 20-30 minutes. This will help relax the gluten, improving the texture of the pies.

Preparing the Filling
1. Chopping the onions: While the dough rests, peel and finely chop the onions. Using a food processor can make this task much quicker and easier.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the minced meat with the onion, egg, salt, and pepper. Make sure the mixture is homogeneous, and the spices are evenly distributed. Taste the filling to adjust the salt and pepper, if necessary.

Assembling the Suberec
1. Preparing the oil: In a large frying pan, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. It is important that the oil is hot enough to fry the pies evenly and make them crispy.

2. Forming the pies: Tear pieces of dough the size of a golf ball and roll them out on a floured surface. The sheets should be thin, but not so thin that they tear.

3. Filling and folding: Place the filling on one half of the sheet, leaving a small space at the edges. Cover the filling with the other half of the dough and press the edges gently to seal them. You can use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the edges, ensuring that the filling will not leak during frying.

Frying the Suberec
1. Frying: Place the pies in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully turn them.

2. Draining excess oil: After frying, remove the pies onto an absorbent towel to eliminate excess oil. Cover them with a clean towel to keep them warm and crispy.

Serving
Suberec are served hot, alongside a cold yogurt, which adds a note of freshness and balances the rich taste of the meat. These pies can also be enjoyed without yogurt, but the combination is truly delicious.

Practical Tips and Variations
- For a more intense flavor: You can add spices such as paprika, cumin, or garlic to the filling. These will give an extra aroma and flavor boost.
- For a vegetarian option: Replace the meat with sautéed vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. These can be mixed with cheese or tofu for a hearty filling.
- Freezing: Suberec can be frozen, and when you want to serve them, you can fry them directly from the freezer. This way, you have a quick snack ready anytime.

Nutritional Benefits
Meat pies provide essential proteins from meat, while onions add fiber and antioxidants. When consumed in moderation, these delights can be part of a balanced diet. However, considering the amount of oil used, it is recommended to enjoy them on special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can experiment with beef, chicken, or even ground turkey. Each will give a distinct flavor to the pies.
- How can I make the pies healthier? Replace some of the oil with water or broth during frying, or choose to bake them in the oven for a less greasy option.
- What is the best way to store Suberec? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, and if you want to reheat them, use the oven to make them crispy again.

In conclusion, Suberec is a delicious and versatile recipe that is worth trying. With each bite, you will discover a perfect combination of textures and flavors, bringing a touch of tradition to your kitchen. Don't hesitate to share these wonderful pies with your loved ones! Enjoy!