Pirozhki

Ingredients

For the Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
2 large eggs
For the Filling:
1 cup cooked ground beef or pork
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup mashed potatoes (or other fillings like mushrooms, cabbage, or cheese)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking the onions)
For the Egg Wash:
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon water

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm milk and water (about 110째F or 45째C). Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center.

Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and vegetable oil into the well.

Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

In a bowl, combine the cooked ground meat, mashed potatoes, cooked onions, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Pirozhki

Shape the Pirozhki

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 16-20 equal pieces.

Roll each piece into a small circle about 4 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of filling in the center.

Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pinching the edges together to seal. You can also form small round pockets by folding the dough in half.

Cook the Pirozhki

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375째F (190째C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Apply Egg Wash

Place the pirozhki on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg mixed with water.

Bake

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