These mushroom puff pastry turnovers are a perfect savory treat—crispy on the outside and filled with a rich, aromatic mushroom mixture inside. Made with simple ingredients like mushrooms, onions, carrots, and fresh herbs, they are ideal for Orthodox fasting days when oil is allowed.
They are especially wonderful served warm, with tea or as a light meal, and can easily be prepared ahead of time.
Mushroom puff pasty turnovers
Description
In many Eastern Orthodox cultures, baked goods and savory pies hold a special place at the table, especially during fasting periods. From simple hand pies to more elaborate pastries, these dishes are cherished for their warmth, comfort, and ability to bring people together. Whether filled with vegetables, mushrooms, or grains, they reflect a tradition of creating nourishing, satisfying foods within fasting guidelines.
Puff pastry can be a wonderful option during fasting, as many store-bought varieties are made without butter and instead use plant-based fats like vegetable oil or margarine. This means you still get those delicate, flaky layers and crisp texture while keeping the recipe fully vegan. It’s a simple shortcut that makes baking feel effortless, allowing you to prepare both savory and sweet dishes without compromising fasting guidelines—just be sure to check the label to confirm it’s dairy-free.
For the filling:
For the Pastry
Instructions
Prepare the filling
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Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add onions and cook until soft and translucent.
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Stir in grated carrot and cook for 3–4 minutes.
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Add mushrooms and cook until all liquid evaporates and mixture becomes slightly golden.
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Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Remove from heat and mix in fresh dill.
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Let the filling cool completely.
Prepare the dough
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Roll out puff pastry slightly and cut into squares (about 4x4 inches). 12 squares per sheet.
Assemble
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Place 1–2 tablespoons of mushroom filling in the center of each square.
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Fold into triangles.
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Seal edges with a fork.
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Make 2–3 small slits on top for steam to escape.
Bake
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Place turnovers on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Brush lightly with plant milk or oil (optional for color).
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.
Note
Cook mushrooms well until dry—this prevents soggy pastries.
Let filling cool before assembling to keep pastry flaky.
You can freeze assembled turnovers and bake directly from frozen.