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
- 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.
- Rest the Dough: Let the dough rest covered for about 10-15 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: Boil the diced potatoes until tender, drain, and mash. Mix the grated cheese into the mashed potatoes.
- 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.
- 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
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of creamy cheese and hearty potatoes in a flaky crust is universally comforting.
- Versatility: This pie can be adapted to include different fillings, catering to what’s available or preferred.
- All-Occasion Dish: Perfect for a casual family meal or as part of a festive table.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients that are easy to find and work with.
- 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.