Vegetable Filled Savory Pastries

These delightful vegetable-filled savory pastries are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering a satisfying experience for both the eyes and the palate. The flaky, tender dough cradles a rich filling of colorful vegetables, enhancing the overall appeal of this dish. The combination of diverse frozen vegetables, cheese, and cream creates a creamy and hearty taste, ideal for any meal of the day. The pastries can be customized to meet different tastes by varying the cheese or adding spices. With a short preparation time, these pastries make a great choice for a quick meal that's both nourishing and delicious. The sunflower seeds add a subtle crunch, complementing the soft filling perfectly. These pastries are not only tasty but also present beautifully, making them a great option for family gatherings or brunches. Even though they're simple to prepare, they bring gourmet flair to any meal. Serve them hot from the oven for the best indulgence.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 400 g of mixed frozen vegetables
• 1 onion
• 1 tablespoon potato starch
• 1 egg
• 50 ml cream (sweet or sour, as preferred)
• 50 g cheese
• Salt
• Pepper
• 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds

For the Dough

• 200 g flour
• 100 g low-fat cottage cheese
• 5 tablespoons milk
• 5 tablespoons oil (or slightly more)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• Salt

Preparation Time

Total Time: 50 minutes (includes both preparation and cooking).

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by thawing the mixed frozen vegetables. Drain them thoroughly to remove any excess moisture.
2. Chop the onion finely and sauté it in a bit of oil until it turns translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the rest of the vegetables to the pan with the sautéed onion and cook, allowing flavors to meld together nicely.
4. Transfer the cooked vegetables to a bowl and mix in potato starch, salt, and pepper. Stir them well to combine.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the cream and egg, then combine with the vegetable mixture for thickness and richness.
6. Now, to prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, low-fat cottage cheese, milk, oil, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
7. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they form a smooth dough. Knead it slightly to ensure even consistency.
8. Grease a baking dish and press the dough evenly on the base of the dish, ensuring it’s well covered without any gaps.
9. Spoon the vegetable filling over the dough, spreading it out to cover the surface evenly.
10. Grate the cheese coarsely and sprinkle it generously over the vegetable mixture to add a delightful cheesy crust.
11. Sprinkle the sunflower seeds on top, giving the pastry an additional texture and flavor depth.
12. Preheat the oven to 200°C (about 390°F) ensuring it's hot enough for baking.
13. Once preheated, place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
14. Keep a watchful eye to prevent it from overbaking, ensuring a perfect pastry.
15. When done, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly to set the filling before slicing.
16. Slice and serve warm, allowing the flavors to shine through beautifully.
17. Accompany with a fresh side salad for a contrasting freshness and balanced meal.
18. Refrigerate any leftovers, they make a fantastic cold snack or can be reheated.
19. Consider personal touches, like adding herbs or swapping cheeses for various flavors.
20. Enjoy this delectable dish with family and friends, savoring every bite!

Tips

• Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is neither too dry nor too sticky. Adjust with flour or milk as needed.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap out the cheese for a sharper cheddar or a creamy mozzarella depending on your taste preferences.
• Vegetable Options: Feel free to use fresh vegetables instead of frozen if available and reduce the thawing step.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving
• Protein: 8g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 22g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute the cheese with vegan cheese and use a flaxseed egg as an egg replacement.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
• Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños for a spiced-up version.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish: Pair with a crisp garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Garnishes: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added aroma.
• Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Best Places

1. Le Pain Quotidien - A cozy café offering an array of pastries and baked goods. Location: 8 rue des Petits Carreaux, Paris, France.
2. Tartine Bakery - Celebrated for its artisanal pastries. Location: 600 Guerrero Street, San Francisco, USA.
3. Hafiz Mustafa 1864 - Known for traditional pastries with a modern twist. Location: Hoca Pasa, Istanbul, Turkey.
4. Pastéis de Belém - Famous for its custard tarts. Location: Rua de Belém nº 84 a 92, Lisbon, Portugal.
5. The Cupping Room - Offers a mix of classic and contemporary pastry options. Location: Central, Hong Kong.
6. La Colombe - Known for its exquisite pastries and coffee. Location: 133 South 18th St, Philadelphia, USA.
7. Konditori - Swedish bakery with a delightful pastry selection. Location: 240 7th Ave, Brooklyn, USA.
8. Pasticceria Marchesi - Offers classic Italian pastries. Location: Via Montenapoleone 9, Milan, Italy.
9. Bageriet - Known for its traditional Swedish baking. Location: 24 Rose Street, London, UK.
10. Lune Croissanterie - Specializes in croissants and a variety of pastries. Location: 119 Rose Street, Fitzroy, Australia.