Meat-filled pastries

Introduction

These delicious meat-filled pastries are a perfect combination of flaky dough and savory ground meat filling, infused with fresh herbs and spices. Known for their soft yet crispy texture, these pastries are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be able to make these delightful pastries at home.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive)

For the Filling:

• 1/2 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• Extra flour for rolling
• 1 tablespoon oil or melted butter for brushing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Gradually add water and mix until a soft dough forms.
   • Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
   • Cover the dough and let it rest for 20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, chopped onion, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
   • After the dough has rested, divide it into small portions (about the size of a golf ball).
   • Roll each portion into a thin oval or rectangular sheet on a floured surface.
4. Assemble the Pastries:
   • Place a spoonful of the meat mixture on one end of the dough.
   • Roll the dough around the filling, then twist the dough to form a round pastry shape, sealing the edges to prevent any filling from escaping.
   • Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
5. Bake or Pan-Fry:
   • For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pastries on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with oil or melted butter, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
   • For pan-frying, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each pastry on both sides until golden and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side.
6. Serve Warm: Let the pastries cool slightly before serving.

Conclusion

These meat-filled pastries are crispy on the outside and flavorful on the inside, making them a crowd-pleasing dish that’s great for any occasion. Serve them with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures in every bite!