Küüslaugu Pirukad

Küüslaugu Pirukad, or garlic pies, are a beloved treat in Estonia, known for their rich flavors and aromatic scent. These savory pastries are perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying as a hearty snack. The origins of Küüslaugu Pirukad can be traced back to traditional Estonian cuisine, where garlic is a staple ingredient providing warmth and depth to many dishes.

Ingredients

• Flour
• Butter
• Milk
• Yeast
• Sugar
• Salt
• Egg
• Garlic
• Onion
• Dill
• Sour Cream
• Black Pepper

Preparation

Before diving into making Küüslaugu Pirukad, it is essential to gather all your ingredients. The preparation involves creating a dough and making a flavorful filling that will be wrapped in the dough and baked to perfection.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, warm 1 cup of milk and add a teaspoon of sugar. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of yeast on top and let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour and a teaspoon of salt. Add 100g of melted butter and the yeast mixture.
3. Knead the mixture into a smooth dough, cover it, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Finely chop 4 cloves of garlic, 1 large onion, and a handful of dill.
2. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of butter and sauté the onions until translucent.
3. Add the garlic and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat and let cool.
4. Mix the sautéed ingredients with 200ml of sour cream and add the fresh dill. Stir well.

Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Cut the dough into circles (approximately 3 inches in diameter) using a cutter or a glass.
4. Place a spoonful of garlic filling in the center of each dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal.
6. Place each formed pie onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Beat 1 egg and brush the top of each pie with it for a glossy finish.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. After baking, let them cool slightly before serving.

How to Enjoy Küüslaugu Pirukad

These delightful pies are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. Pair them with a chilled drink or serve them as an appetizer at parties. The flavors deepen as they sit, making them great even after a day. Remember to keep them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness. Regardless of how you enjoy them, make sure to share them with loved ones for a truly savory experience.

Estimated Time

The entire process takes approximately 3-4 hours, including cooking time.