What makes the perfect portable meal? These savory hand pies are a game changer for weeknight dinner, filled with tender chicken and flaky pastry, making them a quick and easy family favorite, try making them at home and save this idea

Savory Hand Pies

Introduction

Savory hand pies are a delightful and versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. These delectable pastries are filled with a rich mixture of ingredients, carefully selected to provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures. One of the best things about savory hand pies is their ease of preparation, using everyday ingredients that are readily available in most kitchens. The creativity and flexibility they offer make them an ideal choice for those looking to experiment with new flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and exotic, savory hand pies are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of ingredients in savory hand pies provides a delicious and well-rounded flavor profile that is easy to achieve with common ingredients.
• Ease of preparation: The process of making savory hand pies is relatively straightforward, requiring minimal effort and time.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite their simplicity, savory hand pies are sure to impress with their golden-brown crust and savory fillings, making them perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in savory hand pies include a flaky pastry crust, a rich and flavorful filling, and a variety of toppings or seasonings to add texture and flavor. For the pastry crust, you can use a homemade or store-bought puff pastry, depending on your preference. The filling typically consists of a mixture of sautéed vegetables, meats, and cheeses, which can be customized to suit your tastes. Some practical substitutions for the filling ingredients include using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, or adding other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut out circles of pastry using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, then add the diced vegetables and cook until they are tender. Add the cooked meat and stir to combine.
3. Step 3: Spoon a small amount of the filling mixture onto one half of each pastry circle, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges. Brush the edges with a little bit of water, then fold the other half of the pastry circle over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal the pie.
4. Step 4: Brush the tops of the pies with a little bit of egg wash and cut a small slit in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape. Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to keep the pastry cold, as this will help it to hold its shape and prevent it from becoming too sticky or difficult to work with.
• Don’t overfill the pies, as this can cause them to burst open during baking.
• Experiment with different filling ingredients and seasonings to find your favorite combinations.

Heat Control

When baking the savory hand pies, it’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature and timing to ensure that they are cooked to perfection. The ideal temperature for baking the pies is 375°F (190°C), and they should be cooked for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. You can check for doneness by looking for a golden-brown crust and a firm, puffed texture.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in savory hand pies comes from the flaky pastry crust and the texture of the filling ingredients. To achieve a crispy crust, make sure to bake the pies at the right temperature and for the right amount of time. You can also brush the tops of the pies with a little bit of egg wash before baking to give them a golden-brown finish.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, feta, and parmesan, to add depth and complexity to the filling.
• Add some diced herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the filling for extra flavor.
• Experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken, beef, or pork, to find your favorite combinations.

Storage Tips

• Leftover savory hand pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat the pies, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• The pies can also be frozen for up to 2 months, making them a great option for meal prep or special occasions.

Gift Packaging Ideas

Savory hand pies are a great gift idea for friends and family, and can be packaged in a variety of ways to make them look appealing. Consider wrapping the pies individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then placing them in a decorative tin or basket. You could also add a few garnishes, such as fresh herbs or edible flowers, to give the pies a pop of color and fragrance.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some dried or fresh spices, such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder, to the filling for extra flavor.
• Creative toppings: Consider adding some creative toppings, such as caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or crumbled bacon, to the pies for extra texture and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: Experiment with different ingredients, such as using different types of cheese or meat, to find your favorite combinations.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the pastry crust is too sticky or difficult to work with, try keeping it cold or adding a little bit of flour to help it hold its shape.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have a particular ingredient, such as a certain type of cheese or meat, try substituting it with something similar.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the pies while they’re baking, and check for doneness by looking for a golden-brown crust and a firm, puffed texture.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, savory hand pies can be frozen for up to 2 months, making them a great option for meal prep or special occasions.
• Is it gluten-free? Depending on the type of pastry crust used, savory hand pies can be gluten-free. Simply substitute the traditional pastry crust with a gluten-free alternative.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe for savory hand pies can be easily doubled or tripled, making it a great option for large gatherings or special occasions.

Conclusion

Savory hand pies are a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. With their flaky pastry crust and rich, flavorful fillings, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a special occasion treat, savory hand pies are a great option. So why not get creative and start experimenting with different ingredients and flavor combinations today?