Saraiki Pogača

Ingredients

In the original Belokranjska pogača, the filling consists of ingredients like cottage cheese, eggs, and sour cream. However, in the Saraiki adaptation, the filling is transformed to include minced meat, onions, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices, giving it a distinct Saraiki flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Belokranjska pogača, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 250ml (1 cup) yogurt 250ml (1 cup) yogurt
• 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp oil 2 tbsp oil
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 500g (1 lb) minced meat (beef or mutton) 500g (1 lb) minced meat (beef or mutton)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger paste 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp oil 2 tbsp oil
• For the topping: For the topping:
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
• Sesame seeds for garnish Sesame seeds for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 20g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 40g (Sugars: 2g)
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, yogurt, baking powder, salt, and oil. Knead the mixture into a soft dough. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate pan, heat oil and sauté the chopped onions until golden brown. Add minced meat, garlic, ginger paste, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the meat is fully cooked and the flavors are well combined. Set aside to cool.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out one portion into a circle of about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. 5.
   Place the cooked meat filling on one half of the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. 6.
   Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing them together.
7. 7.
   Transfer the pogača onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pogača turns golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Minced meat — Ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
• Yogurt — Use plain yogurt without any added flavors or sweeteners for the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add chopped green chilies to the meat filling.
• You can substitute minced meat with minced chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
• Serve the Saraiki Pogača warm with a side of mint chutney or yogurt dip.
• Leftover pogača can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for a quick and delicious snack.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor according to your preference.

Serving advice

Saraiki Pogača is best served warm as an appetizer or as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad. Slice it into wedges and serve it with mint chutney or yogurt dip for a delightful flavor combination.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh coriander leaves on top of the pogača before serving. The golden crust and aromatic filling will entice your guests.