Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most rewarding. These savory minced meat pastries, crafted from basic ingredients like flour, water, and salt, have won acclaim for their delightful taste and straightforward preparation. Perfect for any occasion, these pastries combine a tender, buttery dough with a flavorful minced meat filling that will leave you and your guests craving more. Let’s dive into this award-winning recipe and discover how easy it is to create these delicious pastries.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 glasses of water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 cups of flour
- 100g butter (to lubricate the dough)
- 1 teaspoon oil (to lubricate the dough)
For the Filling:
- 300g minced meat
- 5 tablespoons oil
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Bell pepper, to taste
- Ground 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 a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Divide the dough into small, equal portions. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rest for about 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large frying pan, heat the 5 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onions and cook until they become clear and tender.
- Add the minced meat to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Season with salt, black pepper, bell pepper, and ground red pepper to taste. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Take off the heat and allow the filling to cool down a bit.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- On a floured surface, roll each portion of dough into a thin circle. Brush each circle lightly with melted butter and a bit of oil.
- Assemble the Pastries:
- Place a spoonful of the meat filling onto the center of each dough circle. Encase the filling by folding the dough over it, shaping it into a crescent. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp them with a fork for a decorative touch.
- Cook the Pastries:
- Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Cook the pastries in batches, flipping occasionally, until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve:
- Transfer the cooked pastries to a serving plate. Serve warm and enjoy the savory, buttery flavors of these delightful minced meat pastries.
Conclusion
These prize-winning savory minced meat pastries are a testament to the beauty of simple cooking. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that is both impressive and delicious. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or even a quick snack, these pastries are sure to become a favorite in your home. Try this recipe and experience the award-winning taste for yourself!