Homemade Runzas

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Introduction

Homemade Runzas are a savory, comforting dish that originates from the Midwest, particularly Nebraska. These delicious pockets of dough are filled with a flavorful combination of seasoned beef, onions, and cabbage, baked to golden perfection. Often enjoyed as a hearty meal, Homemade Runzas are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a grab-and-go snack. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, preparing a batch to freeze for later, or introducing a unique dish to your friends, these homemade pockets of goodness are sure to satisfy your cravings. With a halal-friendly version, free of pork or alcohol, you can enjoy the delicious flavors without compromising dietary preferences.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners or weeknight meals
• Picnics or packed lunches
• Freezer-friendly meal prep
• Sharing with friends and neighbors
• Halal diets (with beef or chicken)

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Runzas

Here’s why Homemade Runzas will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground beef, onions, and cabbage creates a hearty and satisfying filling, making each bite a comforting experience.
• Golden, Soft Dough: The dough is soft, buttery, and slightly crispy at the edges, providing the perfect contrast to the savory filling inside.
• Customizable: While this recipe sticks to the traditional beef and cabbage filling, you can add extra ingredients such as cheese or herbs to make it your own.
• Easy to Make and Freezer-Friendly: Homemade Runzas are easy to assemble and freeze well for later use. You can make a large batch and enjoy them anytime.
• Halal-Friendly: This recipe uses halal ground beef, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delicious pockets of comfort.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 runzas
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Homemade Runzas:

Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• ¼ cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

Filling:

• 1 lb halal ground beef (or chicken for a lighter version)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups cabbage, shredded
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (check for halal certification)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for sautéing)
• Optional: 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Beef (or Chicken): The key protein in the filling, providing a rich and savory taste. Ground beef offers a traditional, hearty flavor that pairs perfectly with the cabbage.
• Cabbage: A key component that brings a sweet, mild flavor and crunchy texture when sautéed, complementing the richness of the beef.
• Yeast Dough: Soft and tender, this dough envelops the savory filling and bakes into a slightly crispy, golden exterior.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a tangy and slightly savory depth to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

1: Prepare the Dough for Homemade Runzas

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

2: Prepare the Filling for Homemade Runzas

1. Sauté the Meat: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or chicken) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the meat. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened.
3. Cook the Cabbage: Stir in the shredded cabbage, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage has wilted and become tender. Add the Worcestershire sauce and mix well. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
4. Optional Add-ins: If you’re using cheese, you can stir in the shredded cheese at this point, mixing it into the filling.

3: Assemble the Homemade Runzas

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Divide the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces, depending on the size you want your Runzas to be.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Roll each piece of dough into a 6-inch round. Place a generous scoop of the filling in the center of each dough circle.
4. Seal the Runzas: Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges together to seal them completely. You should have a nice, secure pocket of dough with the filling inside.
5. Place on Baking Sheet: Place the filled pockets on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. If desired, you can brush the tops of the Runzas with a little melted butter for a golden finish.

4: Bake the Homemade Runzas

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown.
2. Cool Slightly: Remove the Runzas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This ensures the filling sets and doesn’t spill out when you cut into them.

5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve: Enjoy your Homemade Runzas warm, on their own or with a side of dipping sauce, like ranch dressing or ketchup.
2. Pairing Ideas: These Runzas are great on their own, but you can pair them with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Serve Homemade Runzas

Homemade Runzas are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With a Dipping Sauce: Serve these Runzas with a side of ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a tangy mustard for extra flavor.
• As a Meal: Pair your Homemade Runzas with a fresh green salad, roasted potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a hearty meal.
• For Parties: Cut them into smaller portions to serve as appetizers for parties, picnics, or potlucks. These are always a crowd-pleaser!
• For Freezer Meals: If you have extra Runzas, freeze them for later. They reheat beautifully and make an excellent quick meal option.

Additional Tips for Homemade Runzas

• Don’t Overstuff the Dough: Be careful not to overfill your Runzas, as this could cause them to burst open while baking.
• Use Warm Liquids: When activating the yeast, make sure the water and milk are warm (about 110°F). Too hot, and it could kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate properly.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the filling to give it your own twist.
• Make Ahead: These Runzas can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a day or two before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked pockets for future meals.

Recipe Variations of Homemade Runzas

Here are a few creative twists on the classic Homemade Runza:

1. Cheesy Runzas: Add shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone) to the filling for a cheesy, melty center.
2. Chicken Runzas: Swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter, healthier version of these pockets.
3. Vegetarian Runzas: Replace the meat with a combination of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.
4. Spicy Runzas: Add a few dashes of hot sauce, jalapeños, or red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
5. BBQ Runzas: Add some barbecue sauce to the filling for a smoky, tangy flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Homemade Runzas

• Freezing: To freeze unbaked Runzas, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze them for a few hours until firm. Then, transfer the frozen pockets to a freezer bag or airtight container. Bake directly from the freezer at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.
• Storage: Store leftover Runzas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Special Equipment for Homemade Runzas

Here are a few kitchen tools that might come in handy when making Homemade Runzas:

• Rolling Pin: A rolling pin helps roll out the dough into uniform circles.
• Large Skillet: A large skillet for browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet for placing your Runzas to bake in the oven.
• Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper prevents the Runzas from sticking.

FAQ Section about Homemade Runzas

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of beef? Yes, ground chicken or turkey works great as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
2. Can I make these Runzas gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to follow the instructions on the blend for the best results.
3. How can I make the dough ahead of time? You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
4. Can I make these without yeast? While yeast gives the dough a soft, airy texture, you can substitute it with baking powder, though the dough will be denser.
5. How do I know when the Runzas are done? The Runzas are done when the dough is golden brown, and you can hear a slight hollow sound when you tap the bottom of one.

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Conclusion of Homemade Runzas

Homemade Runzas are a delicious and hearty comfort food that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. With their flavorful filling of seasoned beef, onions, and cabbage wrapped in soft, golden dough, they make a satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re making a batch to enjoy fresh or freezing them for later, Homemade Runzas are versatile, customizable, and always a hit. Enjoy these halal-friendly pockets of comfort for any occasion, and you’ll soon see why they’re such a beloved dish!