Varaždinski Klipič - American Style

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Varaždinski Klipič to the American cuisine, we have incorporated local ingredients and flavors to create a fusion of Croatian and American culinary traditions. The original recipe typically uses a combination of beef and pork for the filling, but in this American-style version, you can use ground beef or pork based on your preference. Additionally, we have added a touch of American spices to enhance the flavor profile and make it more appealing to the American palate. We alse have the original recipe for Varaždinski klipič, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or pork 1 pound (450g) ground beef or pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the glaze: For the glaze:
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. 4.
   In the meantime, prepare the filling. In a skillet, cook the ground beef or pork over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a small circle.
7. 7.
   Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges over the filling and pinch to seal, forming a ball.
8. 8.
   Arrange the stuffed dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
9. 9.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef or pork — Make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding the onions and garlic to ensure it is fully cooked and flavorful.
• Active dry yeast — Check the expiration date on the yeast package to ensure its freshness. If the yeast doesn't froth after dissolving it in warm milk, it may be inactive, and the dough won't rise properly.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling mixture.
• Serve the Varaždinski Klipič warm with a side of sour cream or tzatziki sauce for dipping.
• These rolls can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
• Experiment with different fillings such as cheese, spinach, or mushrooms to create your own variations.
• Leftover Varaždinski Klipič can be frozen and reheated for a quick and delicious snack.

Serving advice

Serve the American-style Varaždinski Klipič as an appetizer or as part of a brunch spread. They are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown Varaždinski Klipič on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill, to add a pop of color. Serve them alongside a bowl of sour cream or tzatziki sauce for dipping.