Traditional Russian Pirozhki

Experience the rich, comforting flavors of Eastern Europe with these Traditional Russian Pirozhki, a classic handheld treat perfect for any occasion. These soft and fluffy yeast dough pastries are lovingly filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, sautéed onions, and tender cabbage, offering the perfect balance of hearty and satisfying. Crafted from simple, wholesome ingredients like all-purpose flour, milk, and butter, these golden-brown buns are baked to perfection after a careful rise, giving them a light, pillowy texture. Prepare them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, and serve warm or at room temperature for a taste of authentic Russian comfort food. With their irresistible aroma and satisfying filling, these pirozhki are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:120 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:145 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 500 grams All-purpose flour
• 250 ml Milk
• 7 grams Active dry yeast
• 30 grams Granulated sugar
• 10 grams Salt
• 50 grams Unsalted butter
• 2 Eggs
• 250 grams Ground beef
• 1 medium White onion
• 100 grams Green cabbage
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 Egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon Water

Directions

Step 1

In a small saucepan, heat the milk until lukewarm (around 38°C/100°F) but not hot. Add the sugar and dry yeast to the warm milk, stir, and let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, one egg, and melted butter to the bowl. Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer (using a dough hook) for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 4

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Finely dice the onion and shred the cabbage. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sauté the onion until translucent.

Step 5

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in the shredded cabbage, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for another 5–7 minutes until the cabbage softens. Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.

Step 6

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 7

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a circle about 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter.

Step 8

Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching them together to seal and forming a small, oval-shaped bun.

Step 9

Place the pirozhki seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Cover them loosely with a towel and allow them to rise for another 20 minutes.

Step 10

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water. Brush the tops of the pirozhki with the egg wash.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 12

Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy your homemade traditional Russian pirozhki!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1476.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3504.5

Total Fat 138.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 55.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 17.0g
Cholesterol 867.4mg	0%
Sodium 4392.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 445.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 20.0g	0%
Total Sugars 52.5g
Protein 123.3g	0%

Vitamin D 213.6IU	0%
Calcium 577.0mg	0%
Iron 31.9mg	0%
Potassium 2203.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.3%

Protein: 14.0%

Carbs: 50.6%