1/2 c. shortening
2 tbsp. yeast
1 c. lukewarm water
1/3 c. buttermilk
1/3 c. sugar
2 tsp. salt
5-6 c. unbleached flour
3-4 slices ham
1 med. onion
3 tbsp. butter
Dash of pepper

Prepare dough by melting shortening, dissolving yeast in water, and sifting together dry ingredients. Combine yeast mixture, buttermilk, shortening, and dry ingredients and knead well, adding flour until no longer sticky. Let dough rise, covered, in an oiled bowl.

Meanwhile prepare filling. Dice ham and onion; fry ham and drain; separately saute onion in butter, adding pepper. Combine onions and ham. When dough has doubled, punch down.

On a floured board, roll dough out to a 1/4 inch thickness. Using a glass or cookie cutter 2 1/2 to 3 inches in diameter, cut out circles in dough. Place 1 teaspoon of filling mixture on each circle. Roll dough around mixture in a crescent shape and place creased side down on a greased cookie sheet. Brush with beaten egg, if desired. Bake at 375 degrees for about 15 minutes, until golden brown. Makes 5 dozen.

This is a Latvian recipe.