Transylvanian pies

Transylvanian Cheese Pastries with Spicy Goat Cheese

With every bite of these Transylvanian pastries, you will feel transported back to the olden days when grandmothers from Transylvania prepared these delights with great love. This simple and tasty dish is perfect for chilly winter days, providing you with the warmth and comfort you need. Come on, let's get to work!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Number of servings: 9 pastries

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g of flour
- 1 packet of dry yeast (for example, Dr. Oetker)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 200 ml of warm water (or as needed)

For the filling:
- Spicy goat cheese (or any other cheese)
- A delicious option is to add fresh dill or green onion tops for extra flavor
- You can experiment with potato and onion fillings for a comforting variation

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, dry yeast, salt, and sugar. It is essential to mix the dry ingredients well to ensure the yeast is evenly distributed. Add the warm water and oil, then mix with a spoon or by hand until a homogeneous mixture forms.

2. Kneading:
Transfer the dough to a floured work surface and start kneading. Knead the dough well for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. This is when the gluten develops, making the pastries fluffy and delicious.

3. Rising:
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a clean bowl, covering it with a damp towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in volume. This step is essential for fluffy pastries.

4. Forming the Pastries:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 9 equal pieces. You can use a knife or a scraper to get uniform portions. Roll each piece of dough into a round sheet about 0.5 cm thick using a rolling pin.

5. Filling:
In the center of each sheet, add 1-2 tablespoons of spicy goat cheese. If you choose to add dill or green onion, now is the perfect time! Fold the dough to form a well-sealed pastry, then gently press the edges with your fingers.

6. Baking:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and grease it with a little oil (make sure not to use too much oil, just enough to prevent sticking). Place the pastries in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. You can flip them with a spatula to ensure they cook evenly.

7. Serving:
Serve the pastries warm, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with dill. These pastries are delicious even when cold, but warm they are truly a treat!

A Brief History

Transylvanian pastries are a symbol of the culinary tradition of the region, often prepared for special occasions or during festive days. This simple recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, bringing family and friends together around the table. The spicy goat cheese adds a distinctive flavor, and the combination with various fillings makes them versatile and suitable for any taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Of course! You can experiment with cottage cheese, feta cheese, or even mozzarella for a milder filling.

2. How do I store the pastries?
If you have leftover pastries, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to restore their crispy texture.

3. What drinks pair well with the pastries?
A cup of warm tea, a dry white wine, or even a glass of buttermilk are perfect accompaniments for your pastries.

Nutritional Benefits

Pastries with spicy goat cheese provide a good source of protein and calcium due to the cheese, while whole flour can add beneficial fiber. They are an excellent choice for a comforting meal, but like any treat, they should be consumed in moderation!

Possible Variations

If you're looking for a new culinary adventure, try adding various fillings, such as:
- Mashed potatoes with sautéed onion
- Cottage cheese mixed with ham
- Chopped green olives for a salty and savory taste

These Transylvanian pastries with spicy goat cheese are not just a simple recipe, but also an opportunity to bring a touch of tradition to your table. So, don't hesitate to prepare them and share this delicacy with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!