
Grandma's Kurnik
Description
Perfect with tea and coffee. The name of the kurnik did not come from using chicken in the filling. There are many versions. One that my grandmother followed says that this pie was made before the “kuren,” the dwelling of the Cossacks. Such kurniks were baked on large sheets and most often for holidays. The filling could include pork and even fish. I offered one of the most budget-friendly baking options, one that even a beginner homemaker can handle.
Instructions
- 1
Step 1

Prepare the necessary ingredients.
- 2
Step 2

Pour the kefir into a bowl, add salt and baking soda. Stir.
- 3
Step 3

Add the flour, grate the cold margarine.
- 4
Step 4

Start mixing the dough with a spoon. When the dough begins to come together into lumps, knead it by hand.
- 5
Step 5

The finished dough should be soft, manageable, and not stick to your hands. Shape it into a ball. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- 6
Step 6

While the dough is in the refrigerator, prepare the filling. Dice the onion finely. Sauté it in vegetable oil until soft and lightly golden.
- 7
Step 7

Remove the meat from the chicken leg quarters and cut it into small pieces. If there is any fat, finely chop it as well.
- 8
Step 8

Cut the potatoes into small cubes, up to 0.5 cm in size.
- 9
Step 9

Add the chopped chicken and potatoes to the pan with the fried onion. Salt, add black pepper to taste. Stir. The filling is ready.
- 10
Step 10

Lightly dust the work surface with flour. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two parts. Roll each part out into a sheet 0.5 cm thick.
- 11
Step 11

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place one layer on the baking sheet. Spread the filling over the layer. Smooth it out.
- 12
Step 12

Cover with the second layer and seal the edges. Brush the kurnik with egg. Place the baking sheet in an oven preheated to 180 degrees for 30–35 minutes; bake the pie until it has a golden-brown crust.
- 13
Step 13

Remove the finished pie from the oven. Brush it with a piece of butter, cover with a towel, and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- 14
Step 14

When the time is up, the kurnik can be served.
- 15
Step 15

The pastry is ready. Serve with tea.