Embark on a culinary journey to the picturesque Aland Islands with our delectable Aland Karjalan Mpiirakka recipe. Hailing from the rich food culture of this archipelago nestled in the Baltic Sea, Karjalan Mpiirakka is a savory pastry that captures the essence of traditional Aland flavors. With a flaky crust and a savory filling, this dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a glimpse into the culinary heritage of this unique region. Join us as we explore the art of crafting this delightful Aland Karjalan Mpiirakka, bringing a taste of the islands to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup rye flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Filling:

• 2 cups rice porridge (cooked rice mixed with milk and a pinch of salt)
• 1 cup mashed potatoes
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Egg Butter:

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1-In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rye flour, and salt.

2-Gradually add warm water and vegetable oil, mixing until a dough forms.

3-Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.

4-Cover the dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

1-In a skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion in butter until it becomes translucent.

2-Mix the sautéed onion with the rice porridge and mashed potatoes in a bowl.

3-Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Karjalan Mpiirakka:

1-Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2-Divide the rested dough into small balls and roll each one into a thin, oval-shaped pastry.

3-Place a generous spoonful of the filling on one half of the oval-shaped pastry.

4-Fold the other half over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork.

Bake the Karjalan Mpiirakka:

1-Arrange the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

2-Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and crisp.

Prepare the Egg Butter:

1-In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped hard-boiled eggs with softened butter.

2-Add a pinch of salt and mix well.

Serve:

1-Allow the Karjalan Mpiirakka to cool slightly before serving.

2-Top each pastry with a dollop of egg butter.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of Aland with this unique variation of the Karelian pasty – the Karjalan Mpiirakka! Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a festive meal, these savory pastries are sure to impress with their combination of textures and rich, comforting taste.

Nutritional Values

Nutritional values for the listed ingredients are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. The values are given per standard serving size, and the actual nutritional content may differ. Please note that these values are estimates and should be used as a general guide:

For the Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour:

• 900 calories
• 4g protein
• 0g fat
• 200g carbohydrates
• 8g fiber

benefits: A good source of carbohydrates, it provides energy. It also contains small amounts of protein and fiber.

1/2 cup rye flour:

• 260 calories
• 7g protein
• 1g fat
• 55g carbohydrates
• 14g fiber

benefits: Rich in fiber, it supports digestive health and provides sustained energy due to its slower digestion rate.

1/2 teaspoon salt: negligible

benefits: Essential for flavor enhancement and also plays a role in maintaining electrolyte balance in the body.

1 cup warm water: negligible

benefits: Keeps the dough hydrated and aids in the development of gluten for a better texture.

2 tablespoons vegetable oil:

• 240 calories
• 0g protein
• 28g fat
• 0g carbohydrates
• 0g fiber

benefits: Adds moisture to the dough, contributing to a softer texture, and provides healthy fats.

For the Filling:

2 cups rice porridge (cooked rice mixed with milk and a pinch of salt):

• 400 calories
• 8g protein
• 4g fat
• 84g carbohydrates
• 0g fiber

benefits: Supplies complex carbohydrates for energy, and when mixed with milk, adds protein and calcium.

1 cup mashed potatoes:

• 200 calories
• 4g protein
• 9g fat
• 28g carbohydrates
• 2g fiber

benefits: Offers a creamy texture and contributes to the dish's carbohydrate content.

1 onion, finely chopped:

• 45 calories
• 1g protein
• 0g fat
• 11g carbohydrates
• 2g fiber

benefits: Adds flavor and provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

2 tablespoons butter:

• 200 calories
• 0g protein
• 22g fat
• 0g carbohydrates
• 0g fiber

benefits: Enhances flavor and provides a source of healthy fats

Salt and pepper to taste: negligible

benefits: Seasonings that not only improve taste but also contribute to electrolyte balance and add antioxidants.

For the Egg Butter:

2 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped:

• 140 calories
• 12g protein
• 10g fat
• 2g carbohydrates
• 0g fiber

benefits: High in protein, they contribute to muscle repair and growth.

2 tablespoons butter, softened:

• 200 calories
• 0g protein
• 22g fat
• 0g carbohydrates
• 0g fiber

benefits: Adds a rich and creamy texture, along with healthy fats.

Salt to taste: negligible

benefits: Enhances flavor and plays a role in maintaining electrolyte balance.

Please remember that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it's advisable to consult with a nutritionist or use a nutritional calculator for more accurate information.