1-Getting started: Begin by combining the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a mixing bowl to create the dough base. In another bowl, whisk the sour cream and eggs until smooth, then add this mixture along with half the milk to the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Add the remaining milk as needed to get the right consistency.

2-Rising the dough: Once the dough is ready, coat it with oil, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 30 to 60 minutes until it doubles in size. To speed this up, place it near a microwave with a cup of hot water or use a yogurt setting on your electric cooker.

3-Preparing the filling: While the dough rises, prepare the filling by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cooking the ground beef, onion, garlic, and salt until the meat browns and cooks through. Then, mix in the cooled meat with mashed potatoes or your chosen alternative like cooked rice or stewed cabbage.

4-Assembling and baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Divide the risen dough into 12 equal pieces for even portions, flatten and cut it like a pizza. Shape each piece into a ball, then flatten it, add filling in the center, fold the dough over, and pinch the edges to seal, gently flattening into hand pies. Arrange them on the baking sheet, brush with an egg wash made from egg yolk and water, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm or at room temperature, and if you’re reheating, cover with a damp paper towel in the microwave to keep them moist.