Golden Crescent Filled Pastries

These delightful pastries are a true treat, offering a delicious taste of homemade comfort with a filling of your choice. Two filling options provide the savory depth of smoked meat and vegetables or a rich blend reminiscent of pizza flavors. The beautifully golden pastry is soft and tender, thanks to a slightly sweet, buttery dough that rises to perfection once baked. This recipe guides you through creating the perfect dough, choosing your favorite filling, and shaping the pastries into delightful golden crescents. Enjoy the process of crafting these pastries that can be a centerpiece at any gathering or a comforting homemade snack. They bake to a perfect golden brown, serving up layers of flavor with every bite. Prepare to spend some time in the kitchen and savor the rewarding results. Enjoy the warmth and comfort that only the perfect homemade pastry can bring. These pastries are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual snacks.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Dough:

• 500 ml milk
  
• 1 kg flour (you might need a little extra)
  
• 50 g fresh yeast
  
• 1 egg
  
• 2 tsp salt
  
• 150 g butter or margarine
  
• 50 ml oil
  
• 3/4 cup sugar (add more for a sweeter pastry, about 1/2 cup extra)

Filling Option 1:

• 2 large onions
  
• 600 g smoked pork
  
• 200 g bacon

Filling Option 2:

• 2 large onions
  
• 200 g smoked bacon
  
• 500 g smoked pork
  
• 2 large pickled or fermented cucumbers
  
• 4 tbsp tomato sauce
  
• 2 tsp mayonnaise
  
• 2 tsp pizza seasoning

Preparation Time

Total: Approximately 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Warm the milk and dissolve the yeast in it, mixing with a whisk for even distribution.
2. Add the egg to the milk mixture, followed by salt and sugar, and mix. Let it sit while you sift the flour.
3. Gradually blend the sifted flour into the milk mixture. Let it sit as you melt the butter.
4. Melt the butter or margarine and allow it to cool slightly. It can be warm but not hot.
5. Add oil to the cooled butter and incorporate into the dough mixture. Mix thoroughly, kneading well. If more flour is needed for consistency, add it slowly. The dough should be slightly sticky yet elastic and soft.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap and a towel.
7. Preheat the oven to 40°C (104°F) and then turn it off. Let the dough rise inside for an hour. It should double or triple in size.
8. While the dough is rising, prepare Filling Option 1: Finely chop 2 large onions and sauté in oil until translucent.
9. Cut 200 g of smoked bacon and 600 g of smoked pork into small pieces. Add to the onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
10. For Filling Option 2, sauté onions in oil, adding finely chopped pickles and meat.
11. Simmer the mixture, then add tomato sauce and pizza seasoning—such as oregano, marjoram, and basil.
12. Once the mixture is cooked, stir in mayonnaise and let it cool before using it to fill pastries.
13. Roll out the risen dough and use a glass to cut circles. Flatten each circle slightly before adding the filling generously.
14. Seal the edges of each pastry well to prevent them from opening. Shape them and place them seam-side down on a baking sheet.
15. Cover those waiting to be baked with a towel while shaping the rest.
16. Brush the pastries with beaten egg for a golden finish once baked.
17. Bake at 190°C (374°F) for about 15-20 minutes until golden.
18. Once baked, arrange the pastries in a bowl and cover them with a towel to allow them to cool gently.
19. Serve and enjoy them warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
20. Bon appétit!

Tips

• Use fresh yeast for the best fluffiness.
• The dough needs to be kneaded well for a soft texture.
• Covering with a towel while rising or after baking helps keep the dough moist.
• Experiment with different filling combinations to suit your taste preferences.

Nutrition

• (Estimated per pastry, may vary with filling choice)
  
• Calories: 210
  
• Protein: 9g
  
• Fat: 12g
  
• Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or spinach and cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly option.
• Vegan: Substitute margarine and soy milk, and use a flaxseed egg instead of a regular egg.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh salad or a hearty soup for a complete meal.
• Accompany with a variety of dipping sauces like mustard or spicy mayonnaise.
• Pair with a refreshing cold beverage or a hot cup of tea.

Best Places

1. Bäckerei Siebert - Renowned for their pastries and classic brews. Location: Schönhauser Allee 12, Berlin, Germany.
2. Patisserie Valerie - A delightful patisserie with a variety of sweet and savory options. Location: Piccadilly, London, UK.
3. Gail’s Artisan Bakery - Known for their artisanal bread and delicious pastries. Location: 138 King’s Rd, Chelsea, London, UK.
4. Bäckerei-Konditorei Traxler - Famous for traditional Austrian pastries. Location: Linzer Strasse 179, Vienna, Austria.
5. Cafe Savoy - Elegant decor with an exquisite selection of pastries. Location: Vítězná 124/5, Prague, Czech Republic.
6. Bien Cuit - Offering artisanal baked goods in a stylish setting. Location: 120 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
7. B. Patisserie - A modern shop with vibrant flavors and classic pastries. Location: 2821 California St, San Francisco, CA, USA.
8. Fika - Swedish for coffee break, offers delightful Nordic treats. Location: 548 W 36th St, New York, NY, USA.
9. La Belle Miette - Specializing in macarons and pastries in a chic Parisian style. Location: 30 Hardware Ln, Melbourne, Australia.
10. Paul - A famous chain that offers a range of delicious pastries. Location: 33 Bedford St, London, UK.