Flour + Boiling Water

Ingredients:
For the Dough:
350 ml boiling water: The hot water helps to create a dough that is pliable and easy to work with.
Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the flavor of the dough.
700 grams flour: All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, providing the right texture.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Adds richness and helps to make the dough more pliable.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the dough to rise slightly, giving it a lighter texture.
For the Filling:
400 grams minced meat: Beef, pork, or a blend of meats can be used, depending on your preference.
4 onions: Finely chopped to add flavor and sweetness to the filling.
2 potatoes: Peeled and grated or finely diced to add texture and substance.
Salt and spices to taste: Customize with your favorite spices such as black pepper, paprika, or cumin.
50 ml water: Adds moisture to the filling, ensuring it’s not too dry.
For Assembly and Baking:
100 grams melted butter: For brushing, adding a golden, crispy finish.
Egg yolk + 1 teaspoon milk: Mixed together to create an egg wash that gives a beautiful sheen to the pastries.
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 45 minutes: This temperature ensures a perfectly baked pastry.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 700 grams of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
Add Boiling Water: Gradually pour 350 ml of boiling water into the dry ingredients. Stir continuously to incorporate the water into the flour.
Add Oil: Mix in 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. This will help to make the dough more elastic and easier to handle.
Knead the Dough: Once the mixture has cooled enough to handle, knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. Cover and let it rest while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, cook 400 grams of minced meat over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add Onions and Potatoes: Add finely chopped onions and grated or diced potatoes to the skillet. Cook until the onions are soft and the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
Season: Season the mixture with salt and your choice of spices. Add 50 ml of water if needed to ensure the filling remains moist. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pastries
Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into equal portions, depending on the size of pastries you want to make. Roll each portion into a thin circle.
Add Filling: Place a portion of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal.
Brush with Butter: Brush the tops of the pastries with 100 grams of melted butter to give them a rich flavor and golden color.
Apply Egg Wash: Mix 1 egg yolk with 1 teaspoon of milk and brush this mixture over the pastries to enhance the color and finish.
Step 4: Bake the Pastries
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Bake: Arrange the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and crispy.