Traditional Serbian Piroške: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

500 grams of all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons of salt
1 tablespoon of sugar
1 packet of dry yeast (about 7 grams)
250 milliliters of warm milk
50 milliliters of vegetable oil
2 large eggs
500 grams of ground meat (beef or pork)
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
1 teaspoon of paprika
Sunflower oil, for deep frying

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Add the warm milk, vegetable oil, and one egg. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
Season the meat mixture with ground black pepper and paprika. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1 cm thick. Cut out circles using a round cookie cutter or a cup.
Place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling, and pinch the edges together to seal.
Heat the sunflower oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 180°C (350°F).
Fry the piroške in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
Remove the piroške with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.

Tools for making

Large bowl - for mixing the dough
Rolling pin - for rolling out the dough
Round cookie cutter or cup - for cutting the dough circles
Skillet - for cooking the ground meat and onions
Deep fryer or large pot - for frying the piroške
Slotted spoon - for removing the piroške from the oil
Paper towels - for draining the fried piroške

Recipe variations

Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier version.
Try different fillings such as cheese and spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or mashed potatoes and cheese.
Add herbs and spices to the dough for extra flavor, such as dried oregano, thyme, or smoked paprika.
Make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground meat with a combination of cooked lentils, diced vegetables, and crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Experiment with different shapes for the piroške, such as triangles or braids.
Create a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
Add grated cheese to the filling for a cheesy twist.
Make a sweet version by filling the dough with fruit preserves or Nutella, and dusting with powdered sugar after frying.
Include additional vegetables in the filling, such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.
For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling.

Recipe overview

Piroške is a delightful Eastern European treat that is sure to become a favorite in your household. These small, half-moon-shaped pastries are filled with a savory ground meat mixture and then deep-fried to golden perfection. The dough is simple to make and the filling, while traditionally made with beef or pork, can easily be customized to suit your tastes. This recipe will guide you through the process of making your own piroške from scratch. Expect to spend some time preparing the dough and filling, but the result is certainly worth the effort. Enjoy these crispy, savory pastries fresh out of the fryer for a treat that's hard to resist.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour for a slightly chewier texture or with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste may slightly vary.
Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of dry yeast. However, you may need to adjust the quantity and follow the instructions provided on the packaging for the appropriate amount to use.
Can I bake the piroške instead of frying? Yes, you can bake the piroške instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the filled piroške on a baking sheet. Brush them with beaten egg for a shiny crust, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Can I freeze the piroške? Yes, you can freeze the piroške. After frying or baking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
What other fillings can I use? While ground meat is a traditional filling, you can get creative and use different fillings such as cheese and spinach, mashed potatoes, or even sweet fillings like fruit preserves or chocolate. Just make sure the filling is cooked or prepared in a way that it won't release excess moisture during the frying or baking process.

Serving dishes and utensils

Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough.
Skillet - Used to cook the ground meat and onions for the filling.
Cutting board - Provides a surface for cutting out dough circles.
Round cookie cutter or cup - Used to cut out circles of dough for the piroške.
Deep fryer or large pot - Used for deep frying the piroške.
Slotted spoon - Used to remove the fried piroške from the oil.
Paper towels - Used to drain the fried piroške.

Origin stories

Piroške, a delightful treat originated from Central and Eastern Europe, particularly popular in Serbia, carries a heartwarming story. It is often associated with family gatherings and celebrations, serving as a symbol of hospitality and warmth. Historically, during the cold winters, grandmothers would spend hours in the kitchen preparing piroške, filling the home with enticing aromas. The children, playing in the snow outside, knew that once the smell of freshly fried dough wafted through the air, it was time for a break. With their cheeks flushed from the cold, they would rush inside to savor the delicious, warm piroške. Today, it's not just a humble snack, but a cherished memory of childhood, a symbol of familial love and care, and a revered tradition passed down through generations.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.