Zintara Pirazini Recipe

**Zintara Pirazini** is a delightful pastry that combines a flaky crust with a savory filling, perfect for any occasion. This recipe provides a scrumptious blend of Dzintara cheese and seasoned chicken, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The pastry dough is made from just two main ingredients, giving it a pleasant texture that's easy to work with. Inside, the filling offers tender, shredded chicken mixed with aromatic spices like pepper and caraway. It's a versatile dish that allows for creativity with its filling options, ensuring minimal waste in your kitchen. The baked treats are brushed with an egg wash, resulting in a golden, appetizing finish. They can be served warm or cold, making them a versatile option for meals or snacks. Pair them with a fresh salad or a hearty soup for a complete dining experience. Most importantly, the simplicity of this dish ensures you can quickly prepare a batch whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• For the Dough:
  • 400 g (2 packs) classic Dzintara cheese
  • 13 dessert spoons of flour

For the Filling

• 300 g shredded (sautéed/boiled) chicken
• 1 onion
• Spices: pepper, caraway
• 1 egg for brushing

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, combine the Dzintara cheese with the flour. Mix them together using your hands until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be easy to handle and not sticky.

2. Roll and Cut: Roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Use a cup or cutter to cut out circles, preparing them for filling.

3. Season the Filling: Make sure your shredded chicken is cooked and cooled. Combine it with finely chopped onion and your choice of spices, such as pepper and caraway. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

4. Optional Additions: For a richer filling, you can add a couple of boiled eggs, chopped, though this step is optional.

5. Fill the Dough: Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each dough circle. Avoid overfilling to make sealing easier.

6. Seal the Pastries: Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together, ensuring the seam is on the bottom to prevent them from opening in the oven.

7. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to a temperature suitable for baking pastries, typically around 180°C (356°F).

8. Egg Wash: Brush each pastry with a beaten egg to give it a shiny, golden-brown finish.

9. Bake: Place the pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 13 minutes or until golden.

10. Serve: Once done, let them cool slightly and serve warm. Enjoy the delightful, savory pastries.

Tips

• Substitutions: Try different cheeses for varied flavors.
• Texture: Ensure the chicken filling is moist but not too juicy to prevent soggy pastry.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approx. 250 per pastry
• Protein: 15g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
• Spicy Twist: Add some chili flakes to the filling for a kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad.
• Serve alongside a warm bowl of soup.

Best Places

• Jana’s Bakery - Known for fresh pastries. Location: Riga, Latvia.
• Pie Magic - Offers a variety of savory pies. Location: New York, USA.
• The Little Bakery - Cozy and inviting bakery. Location: London, UK.
• Savory Delights - Renowned for their creative fillings. Location: Sydney, Australia.
• Pâtisserie Henri - French-inspired pastries. Location: Paris, France.
• Konditorei Café - Authentic Eastern European treats. Location: Berlin, Germany.
• Bakery Bliss - Famous for traditional baking. Location: Toronto, Canada.
• Pastry Perfection - Blend of innovation and tradition. Location: Tokyo, Japan.
• Bakeri Alle - Offers a quaint, rustic atmosphere. Location: Oslo, Norway.
• La Dolce Vita - Celebrated for its sweet and savory offerings. Location: Rome, Italy.