Meat-Filled Pastries (Kimadopitakia)
A rustic celebration of meat, where savory minced meat is lovingly enclosed in crisp, golden pastry—each bite a timeless embrace of warmth and umami.
Ingredients for 24 Pieces
For the Dough
- 4 cups flour (about 800g)
- 6 tablespoons butter at room temperature
- 300-350g lukewarm water
- Salt
For the Filling
- 500g ground meat
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- A pinch of thyme
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 shot of cognac
- 80g water
- Salt
- Pepper
- Sweet paprika
For Frying
- Olive oil
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a bowl, mix the flour and salt.
- Add the butter, cut into small pieces, and rub it into the flour with your hands until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Gradually add lukewarm water, kneading until you have a firm dough that doesn’t stick to your hands.
- Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rest.
Prepare the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a deep pan and brown the ground meat until it changes color.
- Add the onion, garlic, and grated carrot, sautéing together for 2-3 minutes.
- Add cognac, honey, water, salt, pepper, thyme, cumin, and paprika. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the mixture has absorbed all its liquids, then set it aside to cool.
Assemble the Pastries
- Once the filling is cool, divide the dough into 24 pieces and shape each piece into a small ball.
- Flatten each ball into a small round disk with your fingers.
- Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each round, fold the dough over, and press the edges with a fork to seal.
- Repeat this process for all the pastries. Place them on a plate and let them sit for about 10 minutes to ensure they’re well-sealed.
Frying
- Heat enough olive oil in a pan for frying.
- Fry each pastry on both sides until golden brown and crispy.
Enjoy! Crispy and flavorful, these meat-filled pastries make for a perfect snack or appetizer, with a golden crust and a juicy, aromatic filling. Enjoy them warm!
Why It’s Irresistible
Every flaky layer unfolds to reveal seasoned meat wrapped in comforting pastry—a harmonious symphony of texture, flavor, and tradition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, with a light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Perfect as an appetizer, a snack, or a beloved accompaniment to cozy meals.
Learn More About Meat’s Importance!
Curious about the role of meat in a balanced diet? Click here to discover on DeliciousPath why meat is essential for your health and how it contributes to a nutritious lifestyle.
