Step into a world of savory delights with our recipe for Savory Hand Pies! These handheld pastries are perfect for on-the-go snacking, picnics, or a cozy night in. Made with flaky puff pastry and a flavorful filling of chicken, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, these hand pies are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey to create these irresistible savory treats that are guaranteed to steal the show at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, frozen peas, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the peas are heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to cut each sheet into 4 equal squares.
- Spoon a portion of the chicken and vegetable mixture onto one half of each puff pastry square, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Fold the other half of the puff pastry square over the filling to form a triangle. Press the edges firmly to seal, then use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
- Transfer the assembled hand pies to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the pies with beaten egg wash.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove from the oven and let the hand pies cool slightly before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
- You can customize the filling for these hand pies by using different proteins such as beef, turkey, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the filling for extra flavor. Fresh parsley, rosemary, or thyme would all be delicious additions.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the hand pies ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze these hand pies?
A: Absolutely! Once assembled, you can freeze the hand pies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of puff pastry?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust if you prefer. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different from puff pastry, but it will still be delicious.
Q: How do I reheat leftover hand pies?
A: To reheat leftover hand pies, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Keto Version and Low Carb Version
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of these hand pies, you can use fathead dough or a keto-friendly pastry dough made from almond flour, cream cheese, and eggs. Fill the dough with a mixture of cooked chicken, vegetables, and cheese, then bake as directed.
Low Carb Version:
To make a low-carb version, you can use a low-carb tortilla or flatbread as the pastry for the hand pies. Fill the tortillas with the chicken and vegetable mixture, fold them over, and bake until crispy.
In conclusion, Savory Hand Pies are a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course, their flaky pastry and flavorful filling are sure to satisfy your cravings. With endless possibilities for customization and a simple assembly process, these hand pies are a must-have recipe in your culinary repertoire. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends with these delectable savory treats!
