Köttfärspiroger

Köttfärspiroger are a popular Swedish pastry, essentially a savory turnover filled with seasoned minced meat. The name translates directly to "minced meat turnovers" from Swedish. These are a common item found in Swedish bakeries, grocery stores, and are frequently made at home.

The dough for köttfärspiroger is typically a simple pastry dough, similar to what is used for pies or tarts, though some recipes might use a yeasted dough for a softer texture. The filling is traditionally made with ground beef (köttfärs), which is sautéed with onions and seasoned with salt, pepper, and often a touch of allspice or marjoram. Some variations might include diced carrots, mushrooms, or a creamy sauce.

Once the filling is prepared and cooled, it is spooned onto circles of dough. The dough is then folded over the filling to create a semi-circular shape, and the edges are sealed, often by crimping with a fork. Before baking, the piroger are usually brushed with an egg wash for a golden-brown finish.

Köttfärspiroger are versatile and can be enjoyed warm or cold. They are a common lunch item, snack, or part of a picnic. Their portability and satisfying nature make them a beloved part of Swedish cuisine. Variations exist, with some recipes incorporating different types of ground meat or adding other vegetables to the filling.