Savory Pies with Smoked Salmon and Cheese

This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked salmon with the creamy texture of cheese, creating a perfect savory pie that's sure to impress your guests. The delicate balance between the crispy crust and the melt-in-your-mouth filling makes it a great choice for both appetizers and main courses. With the addition of ground meat, paprika, and onions, this dish offers a complex and comforting taste that will make it a family favorite. The mascarpone cheese adds a touch of creaminess, enriching the filling even further. Perfect for a special occasion or simply as a treat for yourself, these pies are versatile and flavorful. The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Give this recipe a try and experience the delicious blend of textures and flavors. Explore the suggested variations to cater to different dietary preferences. Serve with light sides or dress it up with flavorful sauces and enjoy!

Ingredients

Dough

• 2 eggs
• Flour (as needed to achieve the right dough consistency)
• 500 g mozzarella cheese
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 1 cup milk
• 1 packet of "Dzintara" processed cheese
• Baking powder (as needed according to your dough volume)

Filling

• Ground meat (amount depending on preference)
• Paprika (as needed)
• Onion (as needed)
• 50 g smoked salmon
• 1 tablespoon mascarpone cheese
• Seasonings (to taste)

Preparation Time

• 40 minutes (including resting time for the dough)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 eggs, flour, mozzarella cheese, milk, and oil. Mix the ingredients until a smooth dough forms.
2. Incorporate the Cheese: Add the packet of "Dzintara" processed cheese and mix well, ensuring it's fully blended into the dough.
3. Add Baking Powder: Stir in a bit of baking powder to help the dough rise slightly while baking.
4. Rest the Dough: Once the dough is mixed, cover it and set it aside for an hour. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
5. Prepare the Filling: Chop the onion and paprika finely. Mix them with the ground meat in a separate bowl.
6. Season the Meat Mixture: Add seasonings to the meat mixture, adjusting according to your taste preferences.
7. Add Smoked Salmon: Finely dice the smoked salmon and combine it with the meat mixture. The salmon adds a smoky depth of flavor.
8. Incorporate Mascarpone: Fold in the mascarpone cheese, which will add creaminess and smooth texture to the filling.
9. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.
10. Assemble the Pies: Once the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface. Cut it into desired shapes and sizes for your pies.
11. Fill the Dough: Place a spoonful of filling onto each piece of dough. Fold over and seal the edges, forming a neat packet.
12. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each pie.
13. Bake the Pies: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes.
14. Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the pies as they bake, looking for a golden-brown crust as an indicator that they're ready.
15. Remove and Cool: When cooked through, take the pies out of the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
16. Serve Warm: For the best flavor and texture, serve these pies slightly warm.
17. Storing Leftovers: If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
18. Reheat: Reheat in a moderate oven or microwave before serving again to enjoy their texture and flavor.
19. Enjoy! These savory pies are best enjoyed fresh, but they also make excellent lunch options for the next day.
20. Repeat or Share: Feel free to share this recipe with friends or keep it for your secret repertoire for special occasions.

Tips

• Experiment with different cheeses to find your preferred flavor profile.
• For a vegetarian version, replace the ground meat with sautéed mushrooms or hearty vegetables.
• Ensure a tight seal on the pies to prevent filling leakage.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 per pie
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 21g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms and spinach instead of meat.
• Gluten-Free Dough: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Spicy Touch: Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of chili powder for heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad of mixed greens for a light meal.
• Pair with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

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