Russian Piroshki (Meat Hand Pies)

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1. 1Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. 2Step 2: Add vegetable oil and water and mix until smooth. If the dough is too dry, add more water a little at a time until smooth and soft. If too wet, add a little more flour.
3. 3Step 3: Coat the dough with a little vegetable oil and place it back in the bowl. Cover with a damp kitchen towel and place in a warm place to rise for about 30-60 minutes. (You can put it in a microwave with a glass of hot water, but do not turn on the microwave.)
4. 4Step 4: Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
5. 5Step 5: Add the meat, garlic, and salt. Cook the meat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until cooked through. Transfer to a large bowl and mix with rice.
6. 6Step 6: Once the dough has doubled in size, take it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead into a smooth ball, 1-2 minutes. Lightly flatten the dough ball into a disk and divide into 12 equal parts as you slice a pizza. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
7. 7Step 7: To make the hand pies, take a piece of dough and flatten it with your hands. Put the filling in the center and fold the dough in half. Pinch the edges to seal, creating a half moon. Then gently flatten it between your palms, making sure the sealed crimps are on the flat side.
8. 8Step 8: Once all hand pies are formed, heat 1-inch oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven. (Tip: You don't need a thermometer. Drop the end of a wooden spoon into the heated oil; if it bubbles around the wood, the oil is ready.)
9. 9Step 9: Drop 4 hand pies into the hot oil and cook until golden brown, 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook until nice and golden. Remove to a bowl lined with paper towel to absorb excess oil. Continue with the remaining batch.
10. 10Step 10: Serve piroshki warm or at room temperature.