Pīrādziņi

Pīrādziņi, also known as Latvian bacon rolls, are a beloved traditional dish in Latvia. These small, crescent-shaped pastries are filled with a flavorful mixture of bacon and onions, making them a popular treat during celebrations and gatherings. Pīrādziņi have deep-rooted significance in Latvian culture, often associated with warmth and hospitality. Their origins can be traced back to centuries of Latvian culinary evolution, blending local ingredients like bacon and onions with the baking traditions of Northern Europe.

Ingredients

• Flour - 500g
• Milk - 250ml
• Yeast - 15g
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Egg - 1
• Butter - 100g
• Bacon - 200g
• Onion - 1, finely chopped
• Pepper - to taste

Preparation

Begin by activating the yeast. Heat the milk gently until it's warm but not hot. Add the sugar and yeast, stir well, and let it sit for about 10 minutes until bubbling. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with a whisked egg. Melt the butter and add it to the mix. Knead the dough well for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and stretchy. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately 1-2 hours.

Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the pan and chop finely. In the leftover fat, sauté the onion until translucent. Mix together the cooked bacon and onion, and season with pepper to taste. Allow this mixture to cool completely before using it to fill the pastries.

Cooking Process

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles of dough. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Carefully fold the dough over to create a crescent shape, pinching the edges to seal the filling inside. Place the pīrādziņi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to rise again for about 15 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Just before baking, brush each pīrādziņš with a little beaten egg to give them a golden color. Bake them for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown. Utilize a cooking timer to ensure precise baking time. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoying Pīrādziņi

Pīrādziņi are best enjoyed warm, either as a standalone snack or as part of a larger meal spread. They pair well with a variety of beverages, including tea, coffee, or even a cold beer. Traditionally, they are served during festive occasions such as Christmas and Easter, but their comforting flavors make them perfect for any cozy winter gathering. Share them with friends and family to experience the true essence of Latvian hospitality.