Cheese pies (a la granny)
Cheese Pies - Grandma's Recipe
When it comes to family recipes, cheese pies hold a special place in my heart. Every time a holiday approaches or I simply crave the taste of these delicacies, I remember my grandmother, who has been skillfully preparing these pies for over 58 years. It is a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation, and now, I joyfully take on the role of continuing this legacy. I remember how, as a child, I was forbidden to stick my fingers in the dough because my grandmother knew how hard it was to get me out of that sticky 'trap'! But now, with every meal cooked together, we have fun and enjoy the process of creating these delicious cheese pies.
Total preparation time: 2 hours (30 minutes for dough preparation, 1 hour for rising, 30 minutes for filling and frying)
Number of servings: 12 pies
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 600 gr flour
- 200 ml sour cream
- 160 ml warm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 20 gr fresh yeast
For the filling:
- 500 gr cheese (telemea, fresh cheese, or ricotta)
- 2 eggs
- A handful of fresh dill, chopped
Preparation:
Step 1: Preparing the dough
Start by dissolving the yeast in warm water, adding the sugar as well. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until it starts to bubble. This is a sign that the yeast is active and your dough will rise beautifully. In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt, mixing well. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture, followed by the sour cream. Mix everything with a spatula or your hands until you obtain a homogeneous dough.
Step 2: Kneading the dough
I recommend kneading the dough for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it is too sticky, add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as a dough that is too dry will lead to tough pies. Once you finish kneading, place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Preparing the filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Grate the chosen cheese (telemea, fresh cheese, or ricotta) into a bowl, then add the beaten eggs and chopped dill. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. If you are using ricotta or fresh cheese, add a little salt, but if you choose telemea, taste the filling to check if it needs salt.
Step 4: Forming the pies
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll each piece of dough into a circle. Place a full tablespoon of filling in half of the dough circle, then fold the other half over the filling. Press the edges well with your fingers to ensure that the filling won’t leak out during frying. If you want to be more precise, you can use a pastry wheel to seal the edges.
Step 5: Frying the pies
Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot enough (you can check by dropping a bit of dough in - if it bubbles, it’s ready), carefully add the pies. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy. Use a spatula to turn them easily. Once they are done, remove the pies onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serving suggestion:
Cheese pies are delicious served warm, alongside fresh yogurt or slightly salted sour cream. A salad of tomatoes and cucumbers can also be a perfect accompaniment, bringing a fresh and refreshing contrast. If you want to experiment, try filling them with jam or fruits for a sweet version!
Tips and variations:
- If you love cheese pies, you can also add a little dried dill or other herbs to intensify the flavor.
- Instead of frying, you can bake the pies in the oven, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, at 180°C for 25-30 minutes or until golden.
- You can prepare the dough the night before and keep it in the refrigerator, covered, to save time on the day you want to make the pies.
Nutritional benefits:
Cheese pies are a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, and the dill adds a note of freshness and vitamins. Whole flour can be a healthier alternative, bringing more fiber into the diet. However, consume them in moderation, as frying increases their caloric content.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use soy or vegan cheese?
Sure! You can adapt the recipe according to dietary preferences. Vegan cheese can work well in the filling, but make sure to add enough spices to enhance the flavor.
2. What is the best type of cheese for pies?
Telemea is preferred for its texture, but fresh cheese and ricotta are excellent options, especially if you prefer a less salty filling.
3. Can I freeze the pies?
Yes, you can freeze the pies before frying them. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and keep them in the freezer. When you want to consume them, let them thaw and then fry them directly.
4. How can I make the dough less sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add flour, but don’t overdo it to avoid getting a dough that is too dry. Oil on your hands can help you work with the dough more easily.
These cheese pies are not just a culinary delight, but also a bridge between generations, a way to keep family tradition alive. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, they are sure to bring a smile to your face. So put on your chef's clothes and let’s start the delicious adventure of making these cheese pies!
Ingredients: Dough: 600 g flour, 200 ml sweet cream, 160 ml warm water, 1 tsp sugar, 1 1/2 tsp salt, 20 g yeast. Filling: 500 g cheese (telemea, cottage cheese, ricotta), 2 eggs, dill.
