The Story Behind the Dish
Discover the ultimate weekend comfort food – a mouthwatering meat and kefir pie that combines tender ground beef, aromatic spices, and a uniquely soft, tangy batter. This rustic dish brings together simple ingredients to create a show-stopping meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for family dinners or when you want a delicious meal with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (450g)
- Shallot: 1 medium
- Butter: 1/2 tbsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Cumin: 1/4 tsp
- Coriander: 1/4 tsp
- Cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
- Sweet Paprika: 1/4 tsp
- Fresh Parsley: 1 handful
- Large Potato: 1
For the Batter
- Eggs: 2 large
- Kefir: 2 cups (500 ml)
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 3/4 cups (340g)
- Baking Powder: 1 1/2 tsp (or 1/2 tsp baking soda)
- Salt: Pinch
- Sesame Seeds: Optional, for topping
- Butter or Oil: 1/2 tsp (for greasing pan)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Filling:
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat
- Add ground beef and fry undisturbed for 2 minutes
- Finely chop shallot and add to the beef
- Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and sweet paprika
- Fry for an additional 5 minutes
- Grate one large potato and squeeze out excess moisture
- Mix grated potato into the meat
- Chop fresh parsley and stir into the mixture
- Make the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs
- Add kefir and a pinch of salt
- Gradually mix in flour and baking powder
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and lump-free
- Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat oven to 360°F (180°C)
- Grease an 8-inch (20cm) square cake pan with butter or oil
- Pour half the batter into the prepared pan
- Evenly spread the meat filling over the first layer of batter
- Cover with remaining batter
- Optionally sprinkle sesame seeds on top
- Bake and Serve:
- Bake for 60 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through
- Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before serving
- Slice and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Approximate):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Serves: 6-8 people
Expert Cooking Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality kefir for the best flavor and texture
- Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potato to prevent a soggy bottom
- Let the pie rest after baking to allow it to set and make cutting easier
- Serve warm for the most delicious experience
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Meat Alternatives: Replace ground beef with ground lamb, turkey, or a plant-based meat substitute
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based kefir or yogurt
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this pie ahead of time? A: Yes! You can prepare the pie and refrigerate before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Q2: How do I store leftovers? A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results.
Q3: Can I freeze this pie? A: Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q4: What can I serve with this pie? A: A fresh green salad, pickled vegetables, or a light yogurt sauce complement this pie perfectly.
Q5: Can I use yogurt instead of kefir? A: While kefir provides a unique tangy flavor, you can substitute with plain yogurt if needed.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking
- Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days
- Reheat in the oven to maintain crispy edges
- Freeze unbaked pie for up to 3 months
- Thaw in refrigerator before baking
Enjoy this comforting, flavorful meat and kefir pie – a true culinary treasure that brings warmth and deliciousness to your dinner table!