This award-winning savory pastry recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. With just a few basic ingredients—flour, water, and salt—you can create a dough that serves as the perfect canvas for a delicious minced meat filling. The result is a crispy, golden pastry with a rich, flavorful filling that will leave everyone asking for more. Whether you’re making this dish for a special occasion or just a hearty meal at home, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 glasses of water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 cups flour
For Lubricating the Dough:
- 100 grams of butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon of oil
For the Filling:
- 300 grams of minced meat
- 5 tablespoons of oil
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- Crushed red pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the water and salt.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing continuously, until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is resting, heat the 5 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent.
- Add the minced meat to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the chopped bell pepper, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Remove the filling from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Once the dough has rested, divide it into smaller portions to make it easier to work with. Roll each portion out on a floured surface until it’s thin and flat.
- Brush the rolled-out dough with the melted butter and a teaspoon of oil. This will help create a flaky, layered texture in the final pastry.
- Assemble the Pastry:
- Place a generous spoonful of the minced meat filling in the center of each rolled-out dough sheet.
- Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges tightly to prevent any filling from escaping. You can shape the pastry into rounds, half-moons, or squares, depending on your preference.
- Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.
- Cook the Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or, if you prefer, you can cook the pastries in a skillet.
- If baking, place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy.
- If cooking in a skillet, heat a little oil in the skillet over medium heat and cook the pastries on each side for 3-4 minutes, until they are golden and crisp.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, let the pastries cool slightly before serving. These pastries are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven or skillet.
- They pair wonderfully with a side salad, yogurt dip, or simply on their own as a savory snack.
Conclusion:
This award-winning savory pastry with minced meat filling is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The crisp, buttery dough encases a rich and flavorful filling, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re serving these pastries at a gathering or enjoying them as a family meal, they’re sure to be a hit. Enjoy this timeless recipe that’s been perfected and celebrated for its taste and simplicity!