Ossetian Pie: A Creamy Potato and Cheese Delight

Dive into the warm, comforting embrace of the Ossetian Pie—a traditional dish where creamy potatoes and melted cheese meet within a golden, flaky crust. This recipe is straightforward yet yields a hearty and satisfying result, perfect for a family dinner, a cozy gathering, or simply a delightful meal on a chilly day.

Flavorful, Hearty, and Delicious

The Ossetian Pie blends simple, wholesome ingredients into a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly satisfying. The slightly tangy flavor of the dough, made with kefir or plain yogurt, beautifully complements the rich, creamy filling.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 200 ml of kefir (or plain yogurt)
  • 250 grams of flour
  • 40 grams of vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda

For the Filling:

  • 300 grams of potatoes (peeled and diced)
  • 200 grams of cheese (grated, any type of your choice)

Preparation Time

  • Total Preparation Time: 35 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 60 minutes

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Mix: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). In a mixing bowl, combine the kefir, flour, vegetable oil, sugar, salt, and baking soda to form a smooth dough. Add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky.
  2. Rest the Dough: Let the dough rest covered for about 10-15 minutes.
  3. Prepare the Filling: Boil the diced potatoes until tender, drain, and mash. Mix the grated cheese into the mashed potatoes.
  4. Assemble the Pie: Split the dough in half. Roll out one portion and lay it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread the filling over, leaving a border. Roll out the second dough portion, cover the filling, and crimp edges.
  5. Bake: Make slits in the top dough layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serving Suggestion

Serve the Ossetian Pie warm, ideally just a few minutes after baking. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables to lighten the meal. For a brunch setting, a side of tangy pickles or a light yogurt sauce could complement the rich flavors of the pie.

Nutritional Benefit

This pie offers a substantial amount of protein from the cheese and probiotics from the kefir, aiding in digestion and enhancing gut health. Potatoes provide a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making this dish a balanced choice for meal times.

Cooking Tips

  • Even Thickness: Ensure the dough is rolled out evenly to avoid undercooked areas.
  • Keep the Filling Dense: Avoid adding too much moisture to the filling to prevent sogginess.
  • Crisp Crust: Brushing the top crust with an egg wash before baking can give a more golden, crisp finish.

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting Flavors: The combination of creamy cheese and hearty potatoes in a flaky crust is universally comforting.
  2. Versatility: This pie can be adapted to include different fillings, catering to what’s available or preferred.
  3. All-Occasion Dish: Perfect for a casual family meal or as part of a festive table.
  4. Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients that are easy to find and work with.
  5. Fulfilling Meal: Satisfies hunger effectively, making it a great option for a filling meal.

Conclusion

The Ossetian Pie is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can be transformed into a dish that feels like a celebration of flavor and texture. It’s a versatile, comforting, and wholesome choice that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned cook, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction and warmth to your dining table. Give it a try, and let each bite transport you to a world of creamy, cheesy goodness.