Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Pyragai, traditional savory pastries or pies perfect for any meal. Filled with a variety of ingredients including juicy meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese, these pastries offer a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Whether you're looking for a hearty snack or a satisfying meal, Pyragai is the perfect choice. Follow our easy recipe to create these delicious treats at home.

Ingredients:

- For the Dough:

 - 3 cups all-purpose flour

 - 1 cup butter, cold and cubed

 - 1 tsp salt

 - 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)

- For the Filling:

 - 1 cup ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both)

 - 1 cup chopped onions

 - 1 cup chopped vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms)

 - 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)

 - 1 tsp ground cumin

 - 1 tsp paprika

 - Salt and pepper to taste

 - 1 tbsp vegetable oil

- For Assembly:

 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

 - Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.

- Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

- Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough comes together.

- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.

- Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent.

- Add the ground meat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.

- Stir in the chopped vegetables and cook until tender.

- Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

- Stir in the grated cheese.

Assemble the Pyragai:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness.

- Cut the dough into squares or circles, depending on your preference.

- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough piece.

- Fold the dough over the filling to create a triangle or half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal.

- Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

- Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.

Bake:

- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

- Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Pyragai with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or salad!

Nutritional Values

All-Purpose Flour

   - Calories: 455

   - Protein: 13g

   - Carbohydrates: 95g

   - Fat: 1g

   - Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

   - Provides essential carbohydrates for energy.

   - Contains small amounts of protein and fiber, which can aid digestion.

Butter

   - Calories: 102

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 11.5g

   - Saturated Fat: 7g

Benefits:

   - Rich in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K).

   - Adds flavor and contributes to a flaky texture in baked goods.

Filling Ingredients:

Ground Beef or Lamb

   - Calories: 213

   - Protein: 21g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 15g

   - Saturated Fat: 6g

Benefits:

   - Excellent source of high-quality protein.

   - Rich in essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Chopped Onions

   - Calories: 64

   - Protein: 1.8g

   - Carbohydrates: 15g

   - Fat: 0.2g

   - Fiber: 2.7g

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

   - Supports cardiovascular health and boosts the immune system.

Chopped Vegetables (e.g., Carrots, Bell Peppers, Mushrooms)

Carrots (per 1 cup, raw):

   - Calories: 52

   - Protein: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 12g

   - Fat: 0.3g

   - Fiber: 3.6g

Bell Peppers (per 1 cup, raw):

   - Calories: 31

   - Protein: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 7g

   - Fat: 0.3g

   - Fiber: 2.5g

Mushrooms (per 1 cup, raw):

   - Calories: 15

   - Protein: 2g

   - Carbohydrates: 2g

   - Fat: 0.2g

   - Fiber: 1g

Benefits:

   - High in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

   - Supports overall health, including vision, skin health, and immune function.

Grated Cheese

   - Calories: 114

   - Protein: 7g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Fat: 9g

   - Saturated Fat: 6g

Benefits:

   - Good source of calcium and protein.

   - Contains vitamins like A and B12.

Vegetable Oil

   - Calories: 120

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 14g

   - Saturated Fat: 1.8g

Benefits:

   - Provides essential fatty acids.

   - Supports heart health when used in moderation.

For Assembly:

Egg (for egg wash)

   - Calories: 72

   - Protein: 6g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Fat: 5g

   - Saturated Fat: 1.6g

Benefits:

   - Excellent source of protein and essential nutrients like vitamins D and B12.

   - Supports muscle health and overall growth.

These ingredients together create a balanced and flavorful pastry, providing a good mix of macronutrients and essential vitamins and minerals.