Mini meat tarts
Mini pies with homemade dough and minced meat
Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings
If you are looking for a quick and hearty snack, mini pies with meat are the perfect choice! These little delights are ideal for a family meal or to take on the go, whether you're heading to work or hiking. With a fluffy homemade dough and a delicious meat filling, these pies will surely become your favorites!
A brief story about mini pies
Mini pies have a long history, being prepared in various forms over the centuries. From sweet to savory fillings, these treats have always brought people together, often served as appetizers during festive meals. Today, we aim to pay tribute to them with this simple and delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
*For the dough:*
- 5 g dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup (approx. 250 ml) warm water
- Flour (as needed, approximately 400-500 g)
- 1 pinch of sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
*For the filling:*
- 200 g minced meat (preferably pork)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg
*For decoration:*
- 1 egg, for brushing
- Cubes of cheese, for filling
Preparation
1. Preparing the dough
Start by dissolving the dry yeast in warm water. Add the sugar to activate the yeast, then let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an essential step, as active yeast will make the dough rise and become fluffy.
2. Add the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast is active, pour the water mixture into the flour, adding the olive oil as well. Mix well with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough begins to form.
3. Knead the dough
Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. It is important that the dough is firm enough to be rolled out, but not so tough that it is hard to handle.
4. Let the dough rise
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes. This step will help the dough double in volume, resulting in fluffy mini pies.
5. Prepare the filling
In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the minced meat over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste and let it brown well. Once the meat is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let the filling cool slightly. After it has cooled, add the egg and mix well.
6. Form the mini pies
Once the dough has risen, gently knead it and roll it out into a thin sheet. Use a glass or a cutter to cut circles from the dough, large enough to create the base of the pies. Place a dough circle on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, fill it with the meat mixture, then lift the edges and pinch them together to form a mini pie.
7. Add the cheese
In the center of each mini pie, add a small piece of cheese, which will melt during baking and provide an extra flavor.
8. Decorating and baking
Use a beaten egg to brush each mini pie, which will give them a golden and appetizing crust. Place them in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 25 minutes or until golden and fluffy.
9. Serving
Mini pies can be served warm, but they are just as delicious cold. They can be enjoyed plain or with a fresh salad on the side. They are also ideal for taking on the go, making them an excellent choice for quick lunches at the office.
Useful tips
- If you want a healthier option, you can use minced chicken or turkey, which are leaner but just as tasty.
- For an extra flavor boost, add dried herbs to the filling, such as oregano or basil.
- Instead of cheese, you can use feta or mozzarella to change the taste.
- If there is leftover dough, you can refrigerate it for later use in other recipes, such as pizza or focaccia.
Nutritional benefits
These mini pies are an excellent source of protein due to the minced meat and egg. Whole grain or wheat flour can be a healthier option, bringing fiber and nutrients. Olive oil provides healthy fatty acids, essential for a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can fresh yeast be used instead of dry?
Yes, you can use fresh yeast, considering that 25 g of fresh yeast is equivalent to one packet of dry yeast.
2. How can I store the mini pies?
Mini pies can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the oven to regain their crispy texture.
3. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Adding sautéed vegetables (e.g., onion, bell pepper, or mushrooms) to the filling will enrich the flavor and add extra nutrients.
In conclusion, these mini pies with minced meat are not only a simple recipe but also a versatile choice that will delight your taste buds. I encourage you to try them and customize them to your preferences. Enjoy!
Ingredients: for the dough: 5 g dry yeast (in a packet) 2 tablespoons oil 1 cup (about 250 ml) warm water flour as needed 1 pinch of sugar 1 teaspoon salt for the filling: 200 g minced meat salt and pepper 1 egg In addition: 1 egg for brushing a little cheese cut into cubes.
