Meat Pitha(মাংসের পিঠা)

 Mangsher Pitha (Meat Pitha) is a savory, traditional Bengali snack, often enjoyed during festivals or special occasions. This pitha is made with minced meat, typically mutton or beef, and stuffed inside rice flour dough. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

2 cups rice flour

1 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

A pinch of salt

1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)

For the Meat Filling:

500g minced mutton or beef (you can also use chicken)

1 tablespoon mustard oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2-3 green chilies, chopped

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

1 teaspoon cumin powder

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1 teaspoon garam masala

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves (optional)

2 tablespoons ghee or oil for cooking

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix the rice flour and salt.

2. Heat the warm water and add it slowly to the rice flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

3. Once the mixture is smooth, knead it into a soft dough.

4. Add a tablespoon of ghee to make the dough smooth and soft. Let it rest for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

2. Add the ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chilies, and sauté for another minute.

3. Add the minced meat and cook until it releases its moisture and begins to brown.

4. Now, add cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes.

5. Add a little water if the mixture gets too dry. Continue cooking until the meat is cooked through and the spices are well incorporated.

6. Once done, remove from heat and let the filling cool. Optionally, add chopped fresh coriander leaves for added flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Pitha

1. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a ball.

2. Flatten each ball into a small disc using your fingers or a rolling pin.

3. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each disc.

4. Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, sealing it completely to form a half-moon or round shape.

5. Press gently to flatten the pitha.

Step 4: Cook the Mangsher Pitha

1. Heat a pan or griddle and add a little oil or ghee.

2. Place the stuffed pithas on the pan and cook on medium heat until both sides are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

3. You can also steam them for a softer texture, steaming for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the Mangsher Pitha hot with chutney or a side of yogurt for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious Mangsher Pitha, a flavorful and hearty Bengali snack!