Vegetable-Stuffed Pastries

Pastry

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 kilogram all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Warm water, as needed to form a soft dough

For the Filling:

• 2 bell peppers (one red and one green), chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, grated
• A handful of green olives, chopped
• Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Soy sauce, to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

For Finishing:

• Egg yolk (for brushing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
• Add the butter and mix until well incorporated.
• Gradually add warm water while mixing until you form a soft, elastic dough.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, grated carrots, and minced garlic.
• Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent, about 10 minutes.
• Stir in the chopped olives, fresh coriander, salt, black pepper, and a splash of soy sauce. Mix well.
• Allow the filling to cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Pastries:

• Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small balls.
• Roll out each dough ball into a flat circle on a floured surface.
• Place a spoonful of the vegetable filling in the center of each circle.
• Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pinching them together.
• Place the stuffed pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Brush the tops with beaten egg yolk for a golden finish.

4. Bake:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Bake the pastries for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Allow to cool slightly before serving.

5. Serve:

• Enjoy the pastries warm. They make a great snack or meal accompaniment!

Benefits

• Nutrient-Rich Filling: The filling includes a variety of vegetables and olives, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Balanced Nutrition: The combination of vegetables and a small amount of butter in the dough provides a good balance of nutrients and flavors.
• Heart Health: Olive oil is a healthy fat that supports heart health, and the use of fresh coriander adds a burst of flavor without extra calories.

These savory pastries are not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet. Enjoy baking and eating these delightful treats!