Yeast cake with minced meat and potatoes is a comforting dish steeped in Eastern European traditions. It's made with a light, fluffy yeast dough and a savory filling of minced meat and creamy mashed potatoes. The golden-brown cake is perfect for gatherings or family dinners, and it pairs wonderfully with pickled salads. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also makes use of leftovers effectively. Discover more about its preparation and history as you explore!
History
Yeast cake with minced meat and potatoes has deep roots in Eastern European cuisine, where families often relied on hearty ingredients to create satisfying meals. This dish, often considered a savory pie, showcases the clever use of yeast dough and savory filling, reflecting the need for economical meals during difficult times. Historical recipes dating back to the 19th century reveal its long-standing presence in home cooking traditions. You'll find variations across different regions, each adapting local flavors while holding true to the essential components of yeast, meat, and potatoes. During cultural festivities and gatherings, this comfort food serves not only as nourishment but also as a communal experience, uniting families and friends around the table. Additionally, the use of traditional ingredients in this dish mirrors the emphasis on regional variations found in Brazilian cuisine. Potato dumplings are another example of how versatile potato-based dishes can be in Eastern European cooking. Routine health checks for signs of illness are similarly vital in ensuring the well-being of families as they enjoy such hearty meals together.
Recipe
To prepare this dish, you'll need to start with a simple yeast dough that rises to create a light and airy base. The filling is made by cooking minced meat with onions and seasonings, then combining it with creamy mashed potatoes. This delightful mix not only packs a punch in flavor but also adds to the overall heartiness of the dish. Baked goods like this can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet that includes lower risks of chronic diseases. Additionally, incorporating high-fiber foods like chia seeds into your meals can further enhance the benefits of a balanced diet.
Once assembled and baked, the cake emerges golden brown and ready to be enjoyed.
Once baked, this delightful cake boasts a golden brown crust, inviting you to savor each hearty bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 pound minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, boiled and mashed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil for cooking
- Optional: herbs or spices (such as paprika or garlic powder)
Instructions:
Begin by activating the yeast in warm water with sugar and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt, then add the yeast mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, usually about an hour.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the minced meat and season with salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you prefer, cooking until browned.
Combine the cooked meat with the mashed potatoes in a bowl.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface, layer the meat and potato mixture in the center, and fold or roll the dough over to encase the filling.
Bake the assembled cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (70°C).
Extra Tips:
For the best results, ensure your warm water isn't too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
You can also experiment with different fillings, such as adding vegetables or cheese for a twist on the traditional recipe. Additionally, this recipe can provide a cozy atmosphere as it reflects the comfort food aspect of the cottagecore aesthetic.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing to help maintain its shape. This dish can be made in advance and reheated, making it a convenient option for meal prep or gatherings.
Cooking Steps
To start cooking, prepare your minced meat mixture by sautéing it with onions and seasonings until it's nicely browned. Incorporating fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile of your mixture. Adding savory ingredients can further enhance the overall taste of the filling. For a healthier twist, consider using lean proteins in your mixture. Shape the mixture into patties and fry them until they're golden brown. After frying, drain the patties on paper towels to remove any excess grease before adding them to your yeast cake.
Step 1. Prepare Minced Meat Mixture
Begin by browning the minced meat in a frying pan with a bit of vegetable oil until it's fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
While that's happening, chop some onions and sauté them until they become translucent.
Once the onions are ready, combine them with the cooked minced meat for a flavorful mix.
You'll want to season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any preferred herbs or spices to enhance the taste.
After mixing everything together, allow the minced meat mixture to cool slightly. This step is crucial to prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy later.
Finally, form the mixture into patties or shapes, ensuring an even thickness for consistent cooking. Regular outings promote confidence and good behavior, just like socialization is important for puppies.
Step 2. Season the Beef Mixture
As you season the minced meat mixture, make sure to add salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs, like thyme or oregano, to elevate the flavor.
Next, stir in finely chopped onions and garlic for added depth and aroma. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne, adjusting to your taste preference.
To bring freshness and a burst of color, mix in some chopped fresh parsley or other herbs.
It's crucial to ensure all the seasonings are thoroughly combined with the minced meat—this guarantees an even distribution of flavors throughout your mixture.
A well-seasoned beef mixture sets the stage for a delicious yeast cake.
Step 3. Shape Into Patties
Once you've seasoned the beef mixture, it's time to shape it into patties.
Start by combining the cooked minced meat and mashed potatoes with any additional ingredients you've chosen. Take a portion of the mixture and mold it into a patty, aiming for a thickness of about 1 inch. This thickness helps the patties cook evenly, allowing the outside to brown nicely while ensuring the inside is fully cooked.
For added texture, consider coating the patties with panko breadcrumbs. If you're using frozen patties, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even heat distribution.
Now, you're ready to cook them until they're golden brown on each side, which typically takes around 4-5 minutes if frying.
Step 4. Fry Until Golden Brown
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat until it's hot enough to create a sizzle when you add the patties.
Gently place the formed patties in the pan, ensuring you don't overcrowd it. This keeps the cooking even and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Fry the cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they're golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C).
If you prefer a healthier option, baking the patties at 200°C (gas mark 5) for 30 minutes, turning them halfway, can make this simple.
Once done, remember to drain them properly to enhance their texture and flavor.
Enjoy your easy ground beef recipe!
Step 5. Drain on Paper Towels
After frying the yeast cakes until they're golden brown, it's time to drain them.
Place the cakes on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil and help drain the grease. This step is crucial, as it improves the texture of the cakes, preventing them from becoming soggy.
Allow the yeast cakes to rest on the paper towels for a few minutes to ensure maximum grease absorption before serving. By doing this, you not only enhance the flavor by removing unwanted fat but also contribute to a healthier meal overall.
Final Thoughts
While you might think of yeast cake as a dessert, this savory version with minced meat and potatoes offers a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.
Its fluffiness pairs beautifully with the richness of ground meat and the comforting texture of potatoes. You can easily customize it with your favorite spices and herbs, making it truly your own.
Plus, it's a great way to use up leftovers, promoting waste reduction and cost-effectiveness in your kitchen.
Serve this delicious yeast cake warm at family dinners or gatherings, paired with pickled salads for a delightful contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Bake Minced Meat?
Yes, you can definitely bake minced meat! Just make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 155-160°F (68-71°C) for safety.
Combine the minced meat with ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs to help bind it together and enhance the flavor with your favorite seasonings.
Baking it in a moist environment helps prevent it from drying out. So, prepare your dish, bake it for about 55 to 65 minutes at 350°F (175°C), and enjoy!
What Do British People Call Potato Cakes?
If potato cakes were the crown jewels of British cuisine, you'd see them sparkling on every plate!
In Britain, you'll often hear them called "hash browns" or "potato fritters" depending on how they're made. In Scotland, they're known as "tatties scones," while in Wales, they might appear in hearty dishes like "cawl."
From sweet to savory, these delightful cakes showcase the potato's incredible versatility in British cooking!
Can You Cook Meat and Potatoes Together?
Yes, you can definitely cook meat and potatoes together! They complement each other perfectly, creating a hearty meal.
Just make sure you cook the meat thoroughly before adding the potatoes to ensure food safety. You can fry, bake, or simmer them for delicious results.
If you're aiming for a healthier dish, drain excess grease from the meat. Mixing minced meat with mashed potatoes also makes it easy to form patties or cakes for cooking.
Are Potato Cakes and Potato Scallops the Same?
Imagine biting into a golden, crispy treat that dances on your taste buds.
While potato cakes and potato scallops may seem similar, they're not the same.
Potato cakes combine grated potatoes with various ingredients like meat and veggies, creating a hearty dish.
On the other hand, potato scallops focus on sliced potatoes, often deep-fried for that light, crispy texture.
