Pirok(Or Russian Pie)
Pirok is a hearty Russian-inspired pie filled with seasoned rice, salmon, and hard-boiled eggs, offering savory flavors perfect for a comforting main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a pie pan with pastry for double crust pie.
- While steaming rice, add the chopped onion to the rice.
- When the rice is done, mix it with canned salmon, including the juice from the cans.
- Mix the rice and salmon mixture well.
- Pat half of the rice and fish mixture into the unbaked pie shell.
- Quarter the hard-boiled eggs and press them into the crust; seal the edges well.
- Cut steam vents in the top crust.
- Bake for 30 minutes if using canned salmon.
- Bake for 60 minutes if using fresh salmon, or until well browned.
- Serve as a main dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, you can substitute the salmon with canned tuna or even a mix of seafood recipes for a different flavor. Make sure to season the rice well as it absorbs flavors. If you prefer a crunchy texture, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the filling. Always check for bones if using fresh salmon.
Serving Suggestions
Pirok is hearty enough to serve as a main dish. Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also goes well with a dollop of sour cream or a side of Gorton'S Crab Soup for a comforting touch. Consider serving it alongside some pickles for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pirok can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices, though the crust may not stay as crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pirok(Or Russian Pie) contains roughly 907 calories, with 17g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value) and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1104mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Just be aware that it may require a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly. Make sure it's fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What can I do if I don't have hard-boiled eggs?
If you're out of hard-boiled eggs, you can skip them or substitute with scrambled eggs, adding them to the mixture before baking. This will change the texture slightly but still provide a rich flavor.
Is it possible to freeze pirok?
Absolutely! Pirok can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze unbaked, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. For baked pirok, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).