Ural Pepper Pastries

Background and History

Ural Pepper Pastries are a delightful treat originating from the Ural region, where culinary traditions are a beautiful blend of various cultural influences. Known for their fragrant aroma and unique texture, these pastries have been enjoyed by locals for centuries. Historically, they were made during festive occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing warmth and hospitality. Today, they continue to be a beloved delicacy, perfect for snacking or as an accompaniment to tea or coffee.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Butter - 1/2 cup, chilled and diced
• Sour Cream - 1/2 cup
• Egg - 1 large
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black Pepper - 2 teaspoons, freshly ground
• Red Pepper - 1 teaspoon, crushed
• Cheese - 1 cup, grated
• Baking Powder - 1 teaspoon
• Milk - 2 tablespoons (for egg wash)

Preparation

To begin making Ural Pepper Pastries, gather all your ingredients. This ensures a smooth cooking process. Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to be at the ideal temperature by the time you're ready to bake.

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream and egg. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, kneading until a soft dough forms.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This allows it to firm up, making it easier to handle.

Step 2: Creating the Filling

1. While the dough chills, mix together the cheese, black pepper, and red pepper in a bowl. This spicy filling is what gives the pastries their distinctive flavor profile.

Rolling and Filling the Pastries

Once the dough has chilled:

1. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick.
2. Use a circular cutter to cut out discs from the dough.
3. Place a small amount of filling in the center of each circle.
4. Fold the circles over the filling to create half-moon shapes, pressing the edges to seal.

Baking the Pastries

1. Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they have some space between them to allow for expansion.
2. Prepare an egg wash by whisking the remaining egg with milk. Brush this over the pastries, giving them a beautiful golden crust during baking.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Use a cooking timer to avoid over-baking.

Serving Suggestions

Ural Pepper Pastries are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they are warm and crisp. They can be served with a side of tangy sour cream or a refreshing green salad as a light snack. Paired with a cup of tea or coffee, they make a delightful afternoon treat.

These pastries can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to revive their crispy texture.