Savory Hand Pies: The Ultimate Amazing Recipe for Everyone

Savory hand pies are a delightful way to enjoy a quick meal or snack. These portable pastries pack a punch of flavor, making them a favorite among food lovers everywhere. Imagine biting into a flaky crust filled with a delectable mixture of meats, vegetables, and seasonings, all wrapped up conveniently for on-the-go enjoyment. Whether for a picnic, a casual dinner, or a party appetizer, savory hand pies are the perfect solution to satisfy your cravings.

If you’ve never indulged in a savory hand pie, now is the perfect time. These treats are not only flavorful but incredibly versatile too. You can easily customize the fillings to suit your preferences or to use up leftovers. In this guide, you will discover why savory hand pies deserve a place in your kitchen, along with detailed preparation, cooking times, ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and serving suggestions.

You’ll find that making savory hand pies is not only simple but also a fun activity to engage with family or friends. As you roll out the dough and choose your fillings, you'll experience joy and creativity. Your kitchen will be filled with tantalizing aromas as they bake, and your determination to create a delicious experience will surely shine through. Let's dive into what makes savory hand pies an amazing addition to your culinary repertoire!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making savory hand pies is a quick and enjoyable process. Here's a breakdown of the time you will need to prepare and cook these delicious pastries:

• Preparation Time: 40 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

These times may vary slightly, but this guide provides a solid framework to help you plan your cooking session effectively.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4-5 tablespoons cold water
• 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (or other protein of your choice)
• ½ cup diced vegetables (like bell peppers, onions, or spinach)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: grated cheese for added flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating savory hand pies is very manageable when you follow these simple steps:

1. Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until the dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

1. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken and diced vegetables. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper for flavor. Mix well and taste to adjust the seasoning as needed.

1. Preheat Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

1. Roll Out the Dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll it out to about ¼ inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut the dough into circles, about 4-5 inches in diameter.

1. Fill the Pies: Place a heaping tablespoon of filling on one half of each dough circle. If using, sprinkle a little cheese on top. Be careful not to overfill.

1. Seal the Pies: Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges with a fork to seal. Make sure there are no gaps for the filling to escape.

1. Brush with Egg Wash: Place the filled pies on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top of each pie with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden finish.

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

1. Cool: Allow the hand pies to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Making savory hand pies can be a fun and fulfilling experience with these easy steps!

How to Serve

To enhance your savory hand pie experience, consider the following tips when serving:

1. Presentation: Serve them on a decorative platter. Garnish with fresh herbs for a colorful touch.
2. Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of sauces like ranch, BBQ, or hot sauce for additional flavor.
3. Side Dishes: Pair with a light salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
4. Temperature: Hand pies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for parties or gatherings.
5. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your savory hand pies not only taste amazing but also make a striking impression on your guests!

Additional Tips

• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices to the filling. A dash of cumin or paprika can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Use Leftovers: Savory hand pies are perfect for using up leftover meats or vegetables. This not only saves food but also adds a personal touch to your fillings.
• Adjust the Size: Feel free to make smaller or larger hand pies based on your needs. Mini versions are great for snacks or appetizers.

Recipe Variation

The beauty of savory hand pies lies in their versatility. Here are a few variations to explore:

1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with lentils, beans, or tofu for a delightful vegetarian hand pie. Add mushrooms and cheeses for extra flavor.
2. Mediterranean Style: Incorporate feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes in your filling for a Mediterranean twist.
3. Spicy Hand Pies: Use spicy sausage, jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese for a kick. Add a touch of hot sauce into the filling to increase the heat.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Once baked, allow hand pies to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: Unbaked hand pies can be frozen. Place them on a baking tray and freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. Bake them directly from the freezer; just add extra time to the baking.

Special Equipment

You don’t need much specialized equipment to make delicious savory hand pies. However, these tools can make the process smoother:

• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough.
• Round Cutter: To cut uniform circles for the pies.
• Baking Sheet: Essential for evenly cooking the hand pies.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Conclusion

Savory hand pies are a delightful culinary creation that brings joy to both the maker and the eater. With their flaky crust, customizable fillings, and portability, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as a main course or as a snack, savory hand pies will impress your family and friends. They invite creativity while remaining simple and approachable, making them a staple in any kitchen. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy making these delectable hand pies that will become a favorite in your home.