Cheese-filled Piragi Recipe

This delightful cheese-filled piragi recipe offers a savory pastry experience with a delightful twist. The buttery dough is wrapped around a cheesy filling, seasoned with aromatic herbs for an indulgent treat. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal, these pastries are both satisfying and comforting. The creamy cheese combined with the subtle flavor of herbs creates a harmonious blend that everyone will love. Whether as an appetizer or a snack, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. The preparation is straightforward, making it approachable even for novice bakers. This dish is perfect for showcasing homemade baking skills with simple yet flavorful ingredients. Bring warmth and joy to the table with these irresistible piragi.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
0.5 cup sugar
1 tsp yeast
0.5 tsp salt
2 eggs
1 cup cheese
2 tbsp butter

Herbs

1 tbsp chopped dill
1 tbsp chopped green onions
0.5 tsp caraway seeds

Preparation Time

Total preparation time is approximately 45 minutes, which includes both preparation and cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preparing the dough. Warm the milk slightly and dissolve the sugar and yeast in it. Let it sit until the yeast activates, forming bubbles.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and the yeast mixture. Add in one beaten egg and butter, mixing until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 30 minutes.
For the filling, melt the cheese in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth.
In a separate bowl, chop dill and green onions finely. Boil the second egg until hard-boiled, peel, and mash it.
Combine the melted cheese, herbs, boiled egg, and caraway seeds to form a consistent filling mixture.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thick.
Cut the dough into small 4-inch squares.
Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each square.
Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal them securely.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the piragi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top of each piragi for a glossy finish.
Bake the piragi in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm or at room temperature.

Tips

For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of cheeses such as cheddar and feta.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the filling.
Ensure the dough is not too sticky. Adjust flour and milk quantities as needed.
For a vegan version, substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Estimated per serving: 320 calories, 9g protein, 12g fat, 45g carbohydrates.

Variations

Opt for whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Add a spoonful of tomato paste to the filling for a tangy twist.
Swap herbs as per your taste, such as parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these piragi with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
Serve alongside a warm bowl of soup for a cozy dinner.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of elegance.

Best Places

Here are some top locations to enjoy similar baked goods:

Piragi Delight - Known for their creative fillings and flaky pastry. Location: 123 Baker Street, Riga, Latvia.
Bakery Haven - Offers a wide variety of baked treats in cozy settings. Location: 456 Craft Lane, Vilnius, Lithuania.
Cheese & Crust - Famous for their selection of cheese-laden pastries. Location: 789 Crust Ave, Tallinn, Estonia.
Pastry Paradise - A must-visit for innovative pastry creations. Location: 321 Dough Blvd, Zagreb, Croatia.
The Pastry Corner - Specializes in traditional recipes with a modern twist. Location: 654 Pastry St, Warsaw, Poland.
Homemade Bakes - Celebrated for their homemade touch and freshness. Location: 987 Home Lane, Prague, Czech Republic.
Baker's Box - Excellence in baking with a focus on quality ingredients. Location: 159 Bake Path, Budapest, Hungary.
Golden Crust Bakery - Offers a range of freshly baked goods every day. Location: 753 Crusty Road, Bucharest, Romania.
Heritage Bakes - Known for preserving traditional baking methods. Location: 951 Tradition Ct, Kiev, Ukraine.
The Bread House - Combines history and flavor in their delightful offerings. Location: 258 Dough Street, Bratislava, Slovakia.