Savory Meat-Filled Pastry Bites

Savory meat-filled pastry bites are a delicious treat that combine a soft, pillowy dough with a rich, smoky filling. These pastries are perfect for gatherings, parties, or as a satisfying snack any time of day. The combination of tender dough and flavorful filling creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Made from a simple yeast dough, these bites are filled with smoky meat and golden fried onions, making them irresistibly tasty. The dough is soft yet slightly chewy, and the filling adds a burst of savory goodness in every bite. These pastries are versatile, allowing for easy adaptations and substitutions to suit different preferences and dietary needs. Their golden, crispy exterior and warm, comforting interior make them ideal for cozy afternoons or when entertaining guests. Serve them as is, or with your favorite side dishes, for a heartwarming experience. Enjoy these little bites of heaven as you embark on a culinary adventure that's simple to prepare, yet incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 egg (for pastry brushing)

For the Dough

500 g wheat flour (preferably type 550 or 812)
100 g soft baking margarine
10 g sugar
5 g salt
10 g dry yeast
400 ml warm water (approximately 35°C)

For the Filling

250 g smoked meat with pork fat
1 onion
1 tbsp margarine

Preparation Time

Total: 130 minutes (including prep and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour with sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add warm water and knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Incorporate the margaric into the dough, kneading until fully combined. The dough should be soft, yet slightly sticky.
Form the dough into a ball, dust with flour, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour.
Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, dice the smoked meat and onion into small cubes.
Heat margarine in a frying pan, add onions, and sauté until golden brown.
Add the smoked meat to the pan and fry for an additional 30 seconds. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
Knead the Dough Again: Once the dough has risen, place it on a floured surface and knead thoroughly until it no longer sticks to your hands or the surface.
Shape the Pastries: Divide the dough into 18-20 equal portions, shaping each into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each flattened dough ball.
Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal and shape into a neat pastry.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). Place the shaped pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a greased baking tray.
Allow the pastries to rise again for 10-15 minutes to prevent cracking during baking.
Brush with Egg: Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the pastries.
Bake the Pastries: Place a small bowl of water inside the oven to create steam. Bake the pastries for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven, cover with a clean towel, and allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Tips

Flour Tips: For a fluffier texture, opt for a higher-quality flour labeled 550 or 812.
Substitutions: Margarine can be replaced with butter for a more buttery flavor.
Rising Tips: Ensure the rising environment is warm but not hot, as high temperatures may kill the yeast.
Water Temperature: Take care not to use water hotter than 35°C to avoid killing the yeast.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 150 per piece
Protein: 5 g
Fats: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute smoked meat with sautéed mushrooms and cheese.
Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes to the filling.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast dough.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a refreshing green salad or a tangy dipping sauce.
Serve warm with a side of pickles or a vegetable platter.

Best Places

Bakery Heaven - Offers a diverse range of freshly baked pastries with unique fillings. Location: 123 Baker St, London, UK.
Pastry Bliss - Known for its innovative takes on traditional pastries. Location: 456 Delight Ave, Paris, France.
Gourmet Nibbles - Features an array of international pastry options. Location: 789 Gourmet Rd, New York, USA.
Crust & Crumble - Specializes in artisanal doughs and fillings. Location: 25 Artisan Ln, Sydney, Australia.
Tasty Layers - A cozy spot renowned for its mouthwatering snack selection. Location: 98 Flavor St, Rome, Italy.
Doughy Delights - Famous for its perfectly risen and baked pastry treats. Location: 67 Crust Blvd, Toronto, Canada.
Bite-Sized Wonders - Offers a wide choice of both sweet and savory pastries. Location: 2 Snack St, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Golden Crust Café - Loves presenting classic pastries with a modern twist. Location: 11 Baker Ave, Vienna, Austria.
Flourish Bakeshop - Combines traditional recipes with contemporary flair. Location: 54 Pastry Rd, Madrid, Spain.
Crumb Corner - Excels in creating thoughtfully crafted baked goods. Location: 77 Crusty Blvd, Berlin, Germany.

Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in these savory meat-filled pastry bites. Happy cooking!