Lithuanian Savory Cheese Pastries (Pyragai)
These are versatile savory pastries, often made with a simple shortcrust dough filled with a variety of ingredients, with cheese being a popular choice. They can be baked in various shapes and are perfect as a snack or a light meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour(plus more for dusting)
- 1 cup Butter(cold and cubed)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/4 cup Ice water(more if needed)
- 1 cup Grated cheese(cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup Chopped onion
- 1/2 cup Chopped bell pepper(any color)
- 1/2 cup Cooked ham or bacon(finely diced (optional))
- 1/2 tsp Ground black pepper
- 1 Egg(beaten, for egg wash)
- optional Sesame seeds or poppy seeds
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Form into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2
Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine the grated cheese, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, diced ham/bacon (if using), and black pepper. Mix well.
💡 Tip: You can also add other finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms or chives. - 3
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 4
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into squares or circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
💡 Tip: Using a cookie cutter or a glass rim can help create uniform shapes. - 5
Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each dough piece.
💡 Tip: Don't overfill, or it will be difficult to seal. - 6
Fold the dough over the filling to create a triangle or half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, using a fork to crimp if desired.
💡 Tip: Ensure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from escaping during baking. - 7
Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds, if using.
💡 Tip: Egg wash gives a nice golden sheen to the pastries. - 8
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- 9
Let cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The dough can be made ahead of time and refrigerated.
- ✓Experiment with different cheese combinations and additions like herbs or a pinch of nutmeg.
- ✓If the dough becomes too warm while working with it, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes.
🔄 Variations
- Use a mixture of ground meat and cheese for a heartier filling.
- Add finely chopped cooked mushrooms or sauerkraut to the filling.
- For a sweeter version, use a fruit filling and a touch of sugar in the dough.