Homemade Bosnian Salenjaci

Ingredients

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for brushing Vegetable oil for brushing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, warm water, and vegetable oil. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and the flavors are well combined. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle or rectangle.
5. 5.
   Place a spoonful of the meat filling onto one half of the dough circle or rectangle. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal.
6. 6.
   Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
7. 7.
   Brush each Salenjaci with vegetable oil and place them on a baking sheet.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries turn golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute it with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter variation.
• Paprika — Opt for Hungarian paprika for a more authentic flavor, but regular paprika works well too.
• Vegetable oil — Feel free to use olive oil or any other neutral oil of your choice.

Tips & Tricks

• To save time, you can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.
• Experiment with different fillings such as cheese, spinach, or mushrooms for a vegetarian variation.
• Serve Salenjaci warm with a side of yogurt or sour cream for a delightful combination of flavors.
• Leftover Salenjaci can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
• If you prefer a spicier filling, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the meat mixture.

Serving advice

Serve Salenjaci as an appetizer or snack. They can also be enjoyed as a main course alongside a fresh salad or pickled vegetables.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Salenjaci on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill. The golden brown color of the pastries will be visually appealing, enticing your guests to indulge.