Neva Bites

Background and Description

The origins of Neva Bites trace back to the bustling streets of St. Petersburg, a city renowned for its rich culinary traditions and vibrant food markets. Named after the picturesque Neva River that flows through the city, Neva Bites are a modern twist on traditional Russian cuisine, blending local ingredients with international influences. These savory pastries have become a staple snack, enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike. Their crispy exterior and flavorful filling provide a delightful experience, embodying the spirit of St. Petersburg's diverse culinary heritage.

Ingredients

• Potatoes - 2 large
• Ground Beef - 250 grams
• Onion - 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic Cloves - 2, minced
• Dill - 2 tablespoons, fresh and chopped
• Flour - 250 grams
• Egg - 1
• Milk - 100 ml
• Butter - 50 grams
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Salt - to taste
• Sunflower Oil - for frying

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour with a pinch of salt. In a saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts. Cool slightly and then beat in the egg. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then cover and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Peel and dice the potatoes. In a pan, heat some sunflower oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add the garlic, ground beef, and cook until the beef is browned. Add in the diced potatoes and a splash of water, cover, and simmer until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the dill, salt, and black pepper to taste. Let the filling cool.

Cooking Process

Roll and Fill the Dough

Divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle around 10cm in diameter. Place a spoonful of the filling on one side of the circle and fold the dough over, sealing the edges with a little water to form a semi-circle. Make sure they are sealed properly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.

Frying

In a deep frying pan, heat ample sunflower oil until hot. Carefully place the filled pastries into the oil, frying them until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

How to Enjoy Neva Bites

Neva Bites are best enjoyed immediately after cooking when they are warm and crispy. Serve them with a side of sour cream for dipping, which complements the richness of the beef and the herbs. They make an excellent addition to any appetizer platter or can be enjoyed as a standalone snack. Pair them with a glass of chilled kvass or your favorite cold beverage for a truly authentic taste of St. Petersburg.

Don't forget to set a cooking timer to ensure your Neva Bites are cooked to perfection!