Delicious Stuffed Buns (Pirozhki) Recipe: A Perfect Homemade Delight

Are you looking for a tasty, homemade snack or a savory meal idea? Stuffed Buns (Pirozhki) are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy dough and a rich, flavorful filling. This classic Eastern European dish can be filled with various ingredients, but today we’ll focus on a savory meat filling that’s sure to impress your taste buds and satisfy your hunger.

Whether you’re preparing these for a cozy family dinner or a special event, these stuffed buns are versatile and easy to make. Follow this step-by-step recipe for a perfect result every time!

Ingredients for Stuffed Buns (Pirozhki)

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk (110°F)
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Meat Filling:

1 lb ground beef or ground pork
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Egg Wash:

1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon milk

Instructions for Preparing Stuffed Buns (Pirozhki)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to be used.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Stir the ingredients together until the dough begins to come together.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Cook the Meat: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
Add Ground Meat: Add the ground beef or pork to the skillet. Break it up into small pieces using a spatula and cook until browned, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Season the meat with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
Simmer the Filling: Once the meat is fully cooked, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly before assembling the buns.

Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed Buns

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
Fill the Dough: Using a rolling pin, flatten each dough ball into a round disk, about 4 inches in diameter. Place a generous spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each disk. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching them together to seal the bun. Place the stuffed buns seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Brush the tops of each stuffed bun with the egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.

Step 4: Bake the Buns

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top.
Cool: Once baked, remove the buns from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of freshness.

Tips for the Best Pirozhki

Alternative Fillings: If you want to switch things up, you can fill your buns with a variety of ingredients. For example, sautéed mushrooms and cheese make a delicious vegetarian option. You could also try a mixture of mashed potatoes and onions for a hearty twist.
Make-Ahead Dough: The dough for these stuffed buns can be prepared in advance. Simply make the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature and continue with the filling and baking steps.
Freezing: If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), these stuffed buns freeze well. Once they’ve cooled completely, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Perfect Occasions for Enjoying Stuffed Buns (Pirozhki)

Stuffed buns are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re looking for a cozy snack during family movie night or need a crowd-pleasing dish for a party, these buns fit the bill.

Lunchbox Treats: These buns are great for packing into lunchboxes. They’re easy to transport and can be enjoyed at room temperature.
Holiday Feasts: Add them to your holiday table as a delicious, warm appetizer.
Picnic Snacks: Take these on a picnic for a filling, handheld snack that’s easy to eat outdoors.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 280
Protein: 14g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g

Conclusion

Stuffed Buns (Pirozhki) are a timeless recipe that brings comfort, flavor, and tradition to your table. The combination of fluffy dough and savory filling makes these buns irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a special event or just a family dinner, these stuffed buns are guaranteed to impress.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get baking! You’ll love the delicious result.

Enjoy making these delightful Stuffed Buns (Pirozhki) and share the warmth and flavor with your loved ones. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings and make this recipe your own!