Savory Meat and Vegetable Hand Pies

These golden-brown, flaky meat and vegetable hand pies are a comforting and delicious snack or meal. Filled with a hearty combination of ground meat, vegetables, and seasonings, they make for the perfect portable meal. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or packing them for lunch, these hand pies offer a satisfying and savory bite every time.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef, pork, or chicken
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1/2 cup peas or other vegetables (optional)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pastry:

• 2 sheets puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté until softened, about 2 minutes.
   • Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Stir in the diced carrots, potatoes, and peas (if using). Cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
   • Add thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
   • Pour in the broth and simmer the mixture for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the liquid has reduced. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
2. Prepare the Pastry:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut them into equal-sized rectangles.
   • Spoon the cooled meat and vegetable filling onto half of the pastry rectangles, leaving a border around the edges.
   • Place the remaining pastry rectangles on top, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
3. Egg Wash:
   • Brush the tops of the hand pies with beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
4. Bake:
   • Place the hand pies on a lined baking sheet.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
5. Serve:
   • Let the hand pies cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with fresh thyme or enjoy as they are.

These savory hand pies are perfect for picnics, lunches, or as a satisfying snack!

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