Reasons to choose air fryer pirozhki
Making pirozhki is much faster than using a traditional oven. The hot air circulates around the buns to create an even finish without the need for deep frying. You save time on preheating and use significantly less oil for the cooking process. It is a simple way to enjoy a classic comfort food at home.
A step-by-step guide to air fryer pirozhki
Prepare the dough: Mix the warm milk, sugar and yeast in a bowl and let it sit for five minutes. Add the flour, salt, egg and melted butter then knead the mixture until it becomes a smooth dough. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and leave it in a warm place for about an hour. The dough should double in size before you move to the next stage.
Prepare the filling: Peel and boil the potatoes until they are soft and then mash them. Fry a finely chopped onion in a little oil until it is golden brown and mix it into the potatoes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking. Let the filling cool down completely before you start filling the dough buns.
Shape the buns: Divide the risen dough into eight equal pieces and roll each one into a small circle. Place a large spoonful of the potato filling in the centre of each circle. Fold the edges over the filling and pinch them together firmly to seal the bun. Shape them into ovals and place them seam side down on a tray.
Air fry the buns: Lightly grease the basket and place the buns inside without letting them touch. Brush the tops with a little beaten egg or oil for a golden colour. Cook at 180C for about 10 to 12 minutes until they are brown and firm. Serve them warm with a side of sour cream if you like.
The best tips for air fryer pirozhki
Make sure the dough has plenty of time to rise in a warm spot. If the dough is too cold, the buns will not be light and fluffy. Seal the edges of each bun very tightly so the filling does not leak out during cooking.
Lightly brush the tops with egg wash to get a beautiful shine on your pirozhki. Do not overcrowd the basket as the buns need space to expand. You can experiment with different fillings like seasoned beef or mushrooms once you master the basic dough.
You can find more inspiration in
air fryer samosas,
air fryer lasagnette or
air fryer green beans.