Belasi with Cabbage Filling

This delightful recipe combines the comforting taste of soft yeast dough with a rich and savory cabbage filling. These stuffed pastries are excellent for a cozy meal, perfect as both a warm dish or a cold snack. The preparation involves creating a tender dough, lightly frying onions and cabbage, and adding a touch of savory meat. The balance of flavors is ensured by a dash of pepper and salt, making it a universally appealing dish. The end result is a golden-brown pastry that can be enjoyed right out of the pan or saved for later as a tasty treat. This dish is versatile and highlights simple ingredients in a way that delivers on both flavor and texture. It's an ideal family meal or a comforting snack for gatherings. Enjoy it warm with a side or just on its own. You'll find each bite satisfying and comforting, with a hint of nostalgia.

Ingredients

Yeast Dough (for 1L)

• 1/2 packet of yeast
• 1 L water
• Flour (as needed)
• Oil (a few tablespoons)
• Salt (a pinch)
• Sugar (a pinch)
• Optional: 1/2 cup wheat bran

Filling

• 1 cabbage (finely chopped)
• 1-2 onions (chopped)
• 150 g dried meat (chopped)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Oil (for frying)

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Yeast Dough: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve half a packet of yeast in 1 liter of lukewarm water. Add a pinch of sugar and let it sit for a few minutes until it begins to froth.
2. Gradually add flour to the yeast mixture, stirring continuously to form a soft dough. Add a few tablespoons of oil, a pinch of salt, and continue kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and set aside in a warm place to rise for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
5. Add finely chopped cabbage to the pan. Stir well and let it cook until the cabbage softens.
6. Add the chopped dried meat to the cabbage mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and cook for a few more minutes until the flavors meld.
7. Once the filling is ready, set it aside to cool slightly.
8. Assemble the Pastries: Take a handful of risen dough and flatten it into a disc.
9. Spoon a generous amount of cabbage filling into the center of the disc.
10. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching them together to seal and form a small boat-like shape. Ensure that the edges are tightly sealed to prevent the filling from spilling out while cooking.
11. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the filled dough balls into the pan.
12. Fry each side until golden brown and crispy, approximately 3-5 minutes per side.
13. Remove from the pan and let them drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
14. Serve the pastries warm for the best experience, though they are also delicious when served cold.
15. Optional Serving Tip: Slice the cooled pastries into smaller pieces for a delightful appetizer or snack.

Tips

• Substitutions: You can use fresh pork or beef instead of dried meat; just be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the filling.
• Technique: For an extra crispy crust, preheat the pan well before adding the oil.
• Storage: Allow pastries to cool before storing them in airtight containers; they can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 150-200 per serving
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

• For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with mushrooms or extra onions.
• Add shredded carrots or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
• To make it vegan, use sautéed tofu or tempeh in place of meat and ensure the dough is made without any animal products.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of sour cream or yogurt for dipping.
• Pair with a simple side salad to balance the rich flavors of the pastries.
• These pastries make a great side dish to hearty soups.

Best Places

1. Pelmeni Dumpling Tzar - Known for a wide variety of stuffed pastries and friendly ambiance. Location: 125 Main St, Riga, Latvia.
2. Baba’s Bites - Offers delightful and authentic Eastern European dishes. Location: 456 Elm Road, Vilnius, Lithuania.
3. Cabbage & Co. - Specializes in cabbage-centric dishes for all tastes. Location: 789 King's Lane, Prague, Czech Republic.
4. Meat & Rye Tavern - Famous for their traditional approach to family recipes. Location: 321 Walnut Ave, Tallinn, Estonia.
5. Traditions Taverna - Offers traditional cooking with modern twists. Location: 234 Oak St, Warsaw, Poland.
6. Yeast & Thyme - A rustic take on classic pastries, with fresh ingredients. Location: 678 Pine St, Bratislava, Slovakia.
7. Eastern Delights - Famed for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food. Location: 890 Birch St, Lviv, Ukraine.
8. The Golden Crust - Known for its extensive range of pastries from around the world. Location: 567 Cedar St, Bucharest, Romania.
9. Flour & Friends - Perfect for those who enjoy hearty and homemade meals. Location: 345 Aspen Blvd, Budapest, Hungary.
10. Rustic Fare - Combines traditional recipes with a touch of creativity. Location: 678 Maple Lane, Sofia, Bulgaria.