Discover the deliciousness of Kibinai, traditional Karaim pastries filled with a savory mixture of meat, onions, and spices. This recipe guides you through making these flavorful pastries from scratch, showcasing the unique culinary heritage of the Karaim community. Perfect as a hearty snack or a standout appetizer, Kibinai combines tender pastry with a spiced meat filling for an irresistible treat.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

- 3 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

- 1 large egg

- 1/2 cup cold water

For the Filling

- 1 lb ground beef or lamb

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1/2 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For Assembling:

- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.

- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

- Beat the egg and add it to the flour mixture. Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together.

- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and cook until softened and golden.

- Add ground meat to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.

- Stir in cumin, coriander, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until spices are well combined. Mix in parsley if using. Allow the filling to cool slightly.

Assemble the Kibinai:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass (about 4 inches in diameter).

- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp with a fork if desired.

- Brush the top of each pastry with the beaten egg.

Bake:

- Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking sheet.

- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve:

-  Enjoy Kibinai warm or at room temperature. They make a perfect snack, appetizer, or part of a meal!

Feel free to adjust the spices and seasoning according to your taste.

Nutritional Values

All-Purpose Flour:

 - Calories: 455

 - Carbohydrates: 95g

 - Protein: 13g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

 - Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.

 - Contains small amounts of protein and fiber.

Unsalted Butter:

 - Calories: 102

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 11g

 - Saturated Fat: 7g

Benefits:

 - Provides essential fatty acids and vitamins A, D, E, and K.

 - Adds flavor and richness to baked goods.

Ground Beef or Lamb:

 - Calories: 250

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 26g

 - Fat: 18g

 - Saturated Fat: 7g

Benefits:

 - Rich in high-quality protein and essential amino acids.

 - Provides vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Onion:

 - Calories: 44

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants like quercetin that may help reduce inflammation.

 - Provides vitamins C and B6, and minerals like manganese.

Garlic:

 - Calories: 5

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

 - May support heart health and immune function.

Ground Cumin:

 - Calories: 8

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants that may help protect against free radical damage.

 - May aid digestion and improve overall metabolic health.

Ground Coriander:

 - Calories: 6

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Rich in antioxidants and essential oils.

 - May have digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Paprika:

 - Calories: 6

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - High in vitamins A and C.

 - Contains antioxidants that may support eye health and reduce inflammation.

Black Pepper:

 - Calories: 6

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Contains piperine, which may aid in nutrient absorption and digestion.

 - Provides antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Fresh Parsley:

 - Calories: 5

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - High in vitamins A, C, and K.

 - Contains antioxidants and may support overall health and digestion.

These ingredients together offer a combination of essential nutrients and health benefits, making Kibinai not only a flavorful but also a nutritious choice.