Plum jam pastries

Plum Jam Pies

Who doesn't love a warm pie with a delicate filling of plum jam? This recipe for plum jam pies is a true delight, perfect for a quick snack or to impress guests. Besides being delicious, these pies are also very easy to make.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Number of servings: about 12 pies

The history of plum jam pies is an interesting one. This simple dessert has been made for generations, with deep roots in culinary traditions. Plums, with their slightly tart flavor, are ideal for making delicious jams, and when wrapped in flaky dough, they become a true indulgence.

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 30 g fresh yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 200 ml lukewarm water
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- Plum jam (about 300 g)

For frying:
- Oil (enough to cover the pies)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the starter: In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in 100 ml of lukewarm water, add 2 tablespoons of sugar and 3-4 tablespoons of flour. Mix well and let it rise for 15 minutes until a thick foam forms on the surface. This is when the yeast will activate, and your pies will be fluffy.

2. Making the dough: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add a pinch of salt, the grated lemon zest, and the risen starter. Gradually pour in the lukewarm water, stirring constantly until you get a smooth and elastic dough. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to make it too tough.

3. Letting the dough rise: Shape the dough into a ball and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This is the crucial stage for achieving a fluffy texture.

4. Shaping the pies: Once the dough has risen, divide it into pieces the size of a golf ball. Roll out each piece on a floured surface to form a circle. Place a tablespoon of plum jam in the center of each circle, then fold the edges and press them well to seal the filling.

5. Frying the pies: In a deep pan, heat the oil. When the oil is hot (test with a small piece of dough - if it bubbles, it's ready), add the pies, 2-3 at a time, to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry until golden brown on both sides, then remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

6. Serving: Plum jam pies are delicious both warm and cold. You can dust them with powdered sugar for a more elegant look or serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Useful tips:

- Variations of jam: If you don't have plum jam on hand, you can use other types of jam, such as apricot or cherry, to add a different note to your pies.
- How to store them: Pies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat them, the microwave is the quickest option.
- A touch of tradition: In some cultures, pies are often served with a sour cream or yogurt sauce, adding a creamy note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the jam.

Nutritional benefits:

- Whole flour used in the dough provides essential fiber for digestion.
- Plum jam is rich in antioxidants, which contribute to cellular health.
- These pies can be an excellent source of energy, making them ideal for a hearty breakfast or an energizing snack.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can replace fresh yeast with dry yeast. Use about 10 g of dry yeast and mix it directly with the flour.
- What other fillings can I use? You can experiment with various fillings, such as sweet cheese or grated apples, to create delicious variations of the original recipe.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? If you want a vegan version, you can replace the plum jam with applesauce and use plant-based milk to moisten the dough.

Whether you enjoy them with loved ones or make them for a personal treat, plum jam pies are a dessert that brings warmth and joy to every slice. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let’s enjoy this simple and delicious recipe!