Savory Hand Pies Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 thawed sheets of puff pastry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 2 minced cloves of garlic
- 1 diced carrot
- 1 diced celery stalk
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg (for the egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and transparent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the diced carrot and celery, cooking for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the cooked chicken, frozen peas, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook everything together for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through.
- Remove the pan from heat and set the filling aside to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Hand Pies:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets.
- Using a knife or circular cutter, cut the pastry into rounds (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
- Place a generous portion of the chicken and vegetable filling on one half of each pastry round, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
- Press down on the edges to seal the pie, then use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring they are well sealed.
4. Prepare for Baking:
- Place the assembled hand pies onto the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the hand pies to give them a golden, crispy finish.
5. Bake:
- Bake the hand pies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are puffed up, golden brown, and crispy.
6. Serve:
- Once baked, remove the hand pies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or party treat!
Optional Tips:
- You can substitute the chicken with pork, beef, or lamb for a different flavor profile.
- Add a spoonful of liver pâté to the filling for an extra savory, umami boost (as in traditional pâté chaud).
- These hand pies can be frozen before baking. Just assemble them, freeze, and bake from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.
These Savory Hand Pies are a perfect snack, appetizer, or festive treat. With their flaky puff pastry and savory filling, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering! Enjoy!