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Potato Pirozhki

Soft, pillow-like buns filled with a savory potato and onion mixture. These traditional pirozhki can be baked or fried and make for satisfying appetizers or portable meals that are perfect for sharing.

115 minMediumServes 12190 cal/serving

RussianAppetizerOven and StovetopVegetarianHalal-friendlyLow-SodiumPork-FreeAlcohol-Free

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Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for dough), melted
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 1/2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 egg (for egg wash), beaten

Instructions

  1. 1

    For the dough, in a large bowl, dissolve 2 tsp active dry yeast in warm 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F) with 2 tbsp granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.

  2. 2

    Add the 1 beaten large egg, 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter (for dough), and 1 tsp salt to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.

  3. 3

    Gradually add the 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 7-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  4. 4

    Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

  5. 5

    While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Place 1 1/2 lbs peeled and diced russet potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes.

  6. 6

    Drain the potatoes and mash them until smooth. Let cool slightly.

  7. 7

    In a skillet, heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely diced yellow onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Allow to cool slightly.

  8. 8

    Mix the sautéed onions, 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill, salt (to taste), and 1/2 tsp black pepper into the mashed potatoes. Set the filling aside to cool completely.

  9. 9

    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a 4-inch circle with a rolling pin.

  10. 10

    Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork or twist to create a decorative edge.

  11. 11

    Place the filled pirozhki on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let them rise for about 30 minutes.

  12. 12

    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  13. 13

    Brush the tops of the pirozhki with 1 beaten egg (for egg wash) for a golden crust.

  14. 14

    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pirozhki are golden brown.

  15. 15

    Serve warm as an appetizer or light meal.

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Questions

What is Potato Pirozhki?

Soft, pillow-like buns filled with a savory potato and onion mixture. These traditional pirozhki can be baked or fried and make for satisfying appetizers or portable meals that are perfect for sharing. This reference files it under Russian appetizer: made in the oven and on the stovetop, rated medium and about 115 minutes start to finish.

What oven temperature does Potato Pirozhki need?

For Potato Pirozhki, the oven is set to 375 F (about 190 C) in step 12. The longest stretch at that heat is 25 minutes, in step 14.

What should Potato Pirozhki look like when it is ready?

Go by the cues in the method rather than the clock. Step 7: cook until soft and translucent. Step 14: cook until the pirozhki are golden brown.

Do I need any special equipment for Potato Pirozhki?

Beyond a knife and a board, the method uses a rolling pin (step 9), a sheet pan (step 11) and parchment paper (step 11). If you do not have one, a clean wine bottle works as a rolling pin.

What can I use instead of yeast in Potato Pirozhki?

The entry for Potato Pirozhki calls for 2 tsp active dry yeast. In its place: Instant and active dry yeast swap measure for measure. Active dry wants five minutes in warm liquid first, while instant goes straight into the flour.

Does Potato Pirozhki contain eggs?

Yes: 1 large egg, beaten and 1 egg (for egg wash), beaten. The full allergen list for this entry is gluten, dairy and eggs. Packaged ingredients vary by brand, so check labels if the allergy is serious.

Can I start Potato Pirozhki the day before?

Yes. Step 4 is a built-in pause of 1 hour: "Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size." Do everything up to that point ahead of time and pick up at step 5 when you are ready to finish.

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