Country: Estonia Servings: Serves 6

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour – 3 cups / 360 g
• Unsalted butter – 200 g / 1 cup
• Egg – 1 large
• Sour cream – 1/2 cup / 120 g
• Salt – 1/2 tsp
• Yeast – 1 packet / 7 g
• Warm water – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
• Ground beef – 300 g / 10 oz
• Onion – 1 large, diced
• Pepper – 1/2 tsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Egg (for egg wash) – 1 large, beaten

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 10 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the sour cream, egg, and yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Knead the dough until smooth, then cover and let rise for 1 hour.
4. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add the onion, garlic, salt, and pepper, cooking until the onion is translucent.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into 6-inch circles.
6. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto one half of each circle, fold over, and seal edges by pressing with a fork.
7. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the Pirukas on a baking sheet, brush with beaten egg.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Substitutions

• Ground beef -> Ground chicken or turkey
• Sour cream -> Greek yogurt
• All-purpose flour -> Whole wheat flour

Enhancements in the Next Evolution

• Incorporate more spices like paprika or cumin for additional flavor.
• Experiment with different fillings like mushrooms or cheese.
• Add finely chopped carrots for extra sweetness and texture.