Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and softened butter.
- Mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough on a lightly oiled surface or in a mixer fitted with a dough hook for 7-10 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Prepare the Fillings:
- For the chicken filling, mix minced chicken with fried onions. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cool to room temperature.
- For the potato filling, mix mashed potatoes with fried onions. Season with salt and pepper. Optionally, add a small amount of butter for extra flavor and creaminess.
- For the cabbage filling, stew shredded cabbage until soft. Add fried onions and grated carrots if using. Season with salt and pepper. Let it cool.
- Forming and Frying the Pies:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Roll out each ball into a circle on a lightly oiled surface.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the pies in hot oil until golden brown on both sides, turning once. Adjust the heat as needed to ensure they cook through without burning.
- Remove the pies from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve and Store:
- Serve the pies hot, sprinkled with a little salt if desired.
- To store, place cooled pies in parchment paper and then in a paper bag to retain their quality.
These Soviet-style pies are a delicious homage to a nostalgic culinary tradition, perfect for enjoying as a snack or a meal on the go. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky to achieve the characteristic fluffy texture of these pies. Adjust fillings according to preference or availability, maintaining the savory flavors reminiscent of Soviet-era street food. Enjoy the taste of history with every bite!
