Tatarskiye Pechenya
Tatarskiye Pechenya is a traditional dish from Tatarstan, a region in Russia known for its rich history and diverse culinary influences. Tatar cuisine combines elements from Russian, Mari, Chuvash, and other cultures, resulting in unique and flavorful dishes. "Pechenya" means "cookies" in Russian, but in Tatar cuisine, this term refers to hearty savory pastries, often filled with meat or vegetables. Historically, these pastries were prepared for special occasions, symbolizing hospitality and generosity.
Ingredients
- Flour - 500g
- Butter - 200g
- Sour Cream - 200ml
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Baking Powder - 1 teaspoon
- Ground Beef - 300g
- Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
- Black Pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
- Egg - 1, beaten
Preparation
To begin making Tatarskiye Pechenya, start by preparing your dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut butter into small pieces and incorporate it into the flour mixture using your hands until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Add sour cream and mix until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
Filling Preparation
While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the onion and garlic until the onion is translucent. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon and cook until browned. Season with salt and black pepper. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool.
Assembling the Pechenya
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface until about 1/2 cm thick. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut circles from the dough. Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal. Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each pastry with beaten egg to give them a golden color.
Cooking Process
Bake the Tatarskiye Pechenya in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown. To ensure even cooking, you may wish to rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking timer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the warm Tatarskiye Pechenya as a main dish or appetizer, accompanied by a fresh salad and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy them with family and friends as part of a traditional Tatar meal. They are perfect for gatherings and can be served with a warm cup of black tea.