Mushroom, cheese, and ketchup pies

Mushroom, cheese, and ketchup pastries: A delicious and comforting recipe

On a chilly day, there’s nothing more pleasant than the aroma of steaming pastries baking in the oven. This recipe for mushroom, cheese, and ketchup pastries is perfect for bringing a touch of warmth and joy to any meal. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main dish, these rich-filled pastries are sure to impress.

A brief history of pastries

Pastries have a long history, being a traditional dish in many cultures around the world. They were often used to keep rich fillings protected in a crispy dough. Over time, different ingredients and techniques have been added, resulting in thousands of variations. This recipe combines classic ingredients with a modern twist, offering an explosion of flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 250 g flour
- 12.5 g fresh yeast (half of a 25 g cube)
- 170 ml lukewarm milk
- 25 ml oil
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar

For the filling:
- 100 g slightly salty cheese or cheese
- 1 bell pepper
- 100 g mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- Ketchup (amount to taste)
- Optional: 100 g diced ham

For brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 25 ml milk

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Rising time: 1 hour (approximately)
- Baking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Number of servings: 6 pastries

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the starter
1. In a small bowl, rub the yeast with the sugar until it becomes a smooth paste.
2. Add 50 ml of lukewarm milk and 2-3 tablespoons of flour. Mix well to obtain a starter and let it rise for 15-20 minutes until it doubles in volume.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
1. Sift the flour into a large bowl and make a well in the center.
2. Add the risen starter, beaten egg, salt, and the rest of the lukewarm milk.
3. Start kneading the dough, gradually adding the oil. Continue kneading until the dough becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands (about 10 minutes).

Step 3: Let the dough rise
1. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes until it doubles in volume.

Step 4: Preparing the filling
1. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Cut the mushrooms and bell pepper into small cubes. If you choose to use ham, cut that as well.
2. In a pan, you can sauté the mushrooms for 5 minutes to release their moisture, then add the bell pepper and ham. Stir until the vegetables become slightly soft. Let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 5: Forming the pastries
1. Sprinkle flour on the work surface and turn out the dough. Knead it lightly and divide it into 6 equal pieces.
2. Take each piece and flatten it with your hand, forming a disc. Moisten each disc with ketchup, add the mushroom and vegetable mixture, then sprinkle with grated cheese.
3. Gather the edges of the dough to seal the filling, pinching in the center, and place the pastries seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Preparing for baking
1. Use a knife to score the edges of the pastries, leaving a portion in the center so that a circle forms.
2. Beat the egg yolk with milk and brush the pastries with this mixture for a golden and appetizing crust.

Step 7: Baking
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Bake the pastries for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.

Serving suggestions
These pastries are delicious served warm, alongside a fresh salad or cream soup. You can also add an extra side of ketchup for added flavor. Additionally, serve them with a glass of yogurt or sour cream, which perfectly balances the flavors.

Possible variations
- Replace the mushrooms with zucchini or spinach for a vegetarian version.
- You can add spices such as oregano or basil for extra flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, for a different taste.

Nutritional benefits
These pastries are not only tasty but also nutritious. They contain protein from cheese, vitamins from vegetables, and carbohydrates from flour. Additionally, the rich mushroom filling provides antioxidants and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you will need about 7-8 g. Mix the dry yeast with the flour before adding the other ingredients.

2. What do I do if I don’t have milk?
You can replace the milk with lukewarm water or plant-based milk (soy, almond, etc.).

3. How long can I keep the pastries?
The pastries can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

Calories
One pastry contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

In conclusion, mushroom, cheese, and ketchup pastries are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a delicious and comforting recipe. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, the result will surely be appreciated by the whole family. Enjoy!