Description
These Russian Piroshki are golden, crispy hand pies filled with a savory ground beef mixture. The soft, elastic dough combined with a flavorful filling makes them perfect as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal. Traditionally baked to a golden brown, these versatile pies can be customized with various fillings and enjoyed warm with sauces or a side salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg
Filling
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter for frying
Finishing
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Add warm milk, warm water, vegetable oil, and one egg. Stir to combine and then knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Cover with a towel and let it rest in a warm area for 1 hour to rise.
- Prepare the filling: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion and mushrooms until soft and translucent. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Shape the piroshki: On a floured surface, roll out the risen dough and cut it into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small circle.
- Fill and seal: Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges tightly to seal, forming a half-moon shaped hand pie.
- Prepare for baking: Place the assembled piroshki onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat one egg and brush it over each piroshki to create a shiny, golden crust when baked.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the piroshki for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve warm: Remove from oven and serve warm, optionally accompanied by dipping sauces, a fresh salad, or a traditional Russian side like borscht or pickled vegetables.
Notes
- The filling can be customized with other ingredients such as chicken, vegetables, or sweet fillings like fruit or cheese.
- For a crispier texture, piroshki can also be fried instead of baked, a popular preparation in Russia.
- Ensure the dough is well kneaded to develop gluten for a tender yet firm crust.
- Use an egg wash for a shiny golden finish on the baked pies.
- Serving with traditional Russian beverages such as kvass or tea enhances the authentic experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Russian
Keywords: Russian Piroshki, Meat Hand Pies, Ground Beef Hand Pies, Russian Snack, Baked Piroshki, Traditional Russian Food
