Easy Beef Belyashi are Eastern European savory treats, a fusion of soft dough and a juicy, flavorful beef filling. These fried pockets, similar to pirozhki, are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The dish uses kefir to create a soft dough, and the meat filling is seasoned with onions, cilantro, and spices. It’s perfect for a comforting meal that’s simple to make and irresistible when paired with sour cream or garlic sauce.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• For the Dough

  • 2 cups kefir

  • 3 ½ cups flour

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 1 tsp baking soda

  • 4 tbsp sunflower oil

• For the Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef (or lamb)

  • 2 medium onions, peeled and pureed

  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped

  • ⅓ tbsp salt

  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

  • Frying oil (sunflower oil)

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling:

   • Combine ground beef, pureed onions, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Dough:

   • In a mixer bowl, combine kefir, flour, salt, and baking soda. Knead on low speed for 5-7 minutes until everything is combined.

   • Gradually add sunflower oil, 1 tbsp at a time, kneading for another 3 minutes after the last addition.

   • Cover the dough and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.

3. Shape the Belyashi:

   • Transfer the dough onto an oiled surface and divide it into 14 equal pieces, forming dough balls.

   • Roll each dough ball into a 4-5 inch flat circle.

   • Place 1-2 tbsp of the meat filling in the center of each circle. Pinch the edges together, leaving a small hole in the center, and gently press to release air.

4. Fry the Belyashi:

   • Heat oil in a large non-stick pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, ensuring the oil covers half of the belyashi.

   • Fry 3-4 belyashi at a time, seam-side down, for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.

   • Flip and reduce the heat to low, frying for another 4-5 minutes.

   • Place on paper towels to cool slightly.

5. Serve:

   • Serve hot with sour cream or garlic sauce and enjoy!

Nutrients (per belyashi)

• Calories: Approximately 250

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Protein: 10g

• Fat: 16g

• Saturated Fat: 5g

• Cholesterol: 40mg

• Sodium: 360mg

• Sugar: 2g

The History and Origins of Belyashi

Belyashi have their roots in Russian and Central Asian cuisines, where they are a staple street food or comfort dish. Traditionally, Belyashi are filled with minced meat—often beef, lamb, or pork—along with a variety of seasonings, and then fried to golden perfection. The dish is believed to have originated in the Volga River region and gradually spread throughout the former Soviet Union. Similar to other stuffed pastries from Eastern Europe, Belyashi are part of a broader tradition of hearty, flavorful hand-held foods that can be enjoyed on the go.

What sets Belyashi apart from other stuffed pastries is their unique shape and cooking method. While pirozhki are typically smaller and baked, Belyashi are larger, pan-fried, and usually feature a distinctive hole in the center of the dough, allowing the savory filling to stay moist and juicy. This frying method creates a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside of the pastry tender and flavorful, making each bite a perfect balance of texture.

The Importance of Kefir in the Dough

One of the secrets to the tender and soft dough in Belyashi lies in the use of kefir. Kefir is a fermented milk drink that is a staple in many Eastern European kitchens. Similar to yogurt but with a thinner consistency, kefir adds a slight tanginess to the dough while contributing to its softness. The fermentation process in kefir also helps create a light, airy texture, which contrasts beautifully with the richness of the beef filling.

In this recipe, the addition of kefir to the dough makes it incredibly soft and easy to work with. It creates a delicate texture that allows the dough to fry up crispy on the outside without becoming too dense or greasy. This results in a lighter, more enjoyable fried treat that balances well with the savory filling. The slightly sour flavor from the kefir also adds an extra layer of depth to the overall taste, enhancing the savory and spiced beef.

The Savory Beef Filling

The filling for Belyashi is typically made with ground beef, although variations using lamb or pork are also common. The key to a flavorful filling is a balance of seasoning. In this recipe, the ground beef is combined with pureed onions, fresh cilantro, salt, and pepper to create a juicy, well-seasoned mixture. The onions help add moisture to the meat, while the cilantro brings a fresh, herbal note that complements the richness of the beef.

In addition to the basic seasonings, the filling can be adapted to suit individual tastes. Some variations of Belyashi might include garlic, cumin, or other spices to give the filling an extra kick. The beauty of the beef filling lies in its simplicity; the meat is the star of the show, and the spices enhance rather than overpower its natural flavors. When fried, the beef filling becomes wonderfully juicy, while the dough retains its soft and airy texture, creating a perfect contrast of flavors and textures.

The Art of Shaping and Frying Belyashi

One of the most crucial aspects of making Belyashi is shaping the dough and filling. The dough is rolled into small circles, and a generous portion of the beef filling is placed in the center. The dough is then pinched around the filling, leaving a small hole at the top. This unique design helps the Belyashi retain moisture during frying and creates an eye-catching presentation. The small hole in the center also allows steam to escape while cooking, preventing the filling from becoming too watery.

When frying Belyashi, it’s important to ensure the oil is heated to the right temperature. Too hot, and the dough will burn before the filling is cooked through; too cold, and the Belyashi will absorb too much oil, resulting in greasy pastries. The trick is to fry the Belyashi in batches, ensuring they are evenly cooked on all sides and golden brown. By flipping them and adjusting the heat during the cooking process, you ensure that the dough is perfectly crisp while keeping the beef filling tender and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions: The Perfect Accompaniments

Belyashi are delicious on their own, but they can be enhanced by serving them with a variety of dips and sides. One of the classic accompaniments to Belyashi is sour cream, which adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory beef filling. The richness of the sour cream complements the crispy dough and cuts through the richness of the beef, making each bite even more satisfying.

Another great option for serving Belyashi is garlic sauce, which adds a fragrant and savory punch that pairs perfectly with the tender beef and crispy dough. The sharpness of garlic sauce balances the richness of the dish and provides an extra layer of flavor. For a more refreshing side, consider serving Belyashi with a simple cucumber salad or pickled vegetables, which provide a light, acidic counterpoint to the heavier, richer elements of the dish.

Belyashi: A Comfort Food for Any Occasion

While Belyashi are perfect for a comforting meal at home, they can also be served at gatherings or parties as a crowd-pleasing snack. Their portable nature makes them an excellent choice for picnics or potlucks, as they are easy to transport and eat without any fuss. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, Belyashi will surely satisfy a variety of tastes and appetites.

For a more casual meal, serve Belyashi with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. The crispy, savory treats are filling enough to stand alone, but they also pair wonderfully with hearty sides, making them versatile for any occasion. The combination of soft dough, flavorful beef, and the perfect accompaniments ensures that Belyashi are a hit no matter the setting.

Conclusion: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Eastern European Delight

Easy Beef Belyashi are a delightful Eastern European treat that combines the best of savory fillings and soft, crispy dough. With the use of kefir in the dough, the result is a tender and flavorful pastry that perfectly complements the juicy, well-seasoned beef filling. Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner, a special occasion, or simply to satisfy a craving, Belyashi are a versatile and satisfying dish that will quickly become a favorite.

The combination of tender dough, rich beef filling, and crispy frying makes Belyashi a memorable dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Paired with sour cream or garlic sauce, these savory treats offer a delicious balance of flavors and textures, ensuring that every bite is just as delightful as the last. Perfect for any occasion, Easy Beef Belyashi is a dish that’s sure to please both the novice cook and the experienced chef alike.