English pies with spicy filling

Spicy English Pies

Introduction

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I invite you to discover the recipe for spicy English pies, a dish that perfectly combines the intense flavors of the ingredients with the crunchy texture of the dough. The story of these pies began at a birthday celebration, where I had the pleasure of tasting them for the first time. Although the version I enjoyed then was deep-fried, I decided to look for a recipe that was just as delicious but healthier. After a few attempts, I created this baked version, which quickly became a favorite in my family.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8 pies

Nutritional benefits

These pies are not only delicious but also nutritious. Whole wheat flour adds fiber, the meat provides essential protein, and the vegetables are rich in vitamins. Additionally, the addition of mushrooms and carrots boosts the antioxidant content. Moreover, the recipe is flexible, allowing you to adapt the ingredients to your preferences, making it an excellent choice for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 335 g flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 90 g butter or margarine (preferably at room temperature)
- 180 ml milk

For the filling:
- 200 g minced meat (preferably beef or chicken)
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 100 g mushrooms (champignon or any preferred type)
- 1 teaspoon chili paste (or to taste)
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg for brushing

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. Start by placing all the dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly combined.
2. Add the diced butter and, using your fingers, rub it into the flour until you achieve a texture similar to fine sand.
3. Gradually add the milk, mixing continuously until the dough becomes smooth. It is essential not to over-knead, as this would develop too much gluten, making the dough less fluffy.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is important as it helps cool the butter and achieve the ideal texture.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. While the dough rests, proceed to prepare the filling. Finely chop the onion and sauté it in a pan with a little olive oil over medium heat. This will add a delicate and sweet flavor to the filling.
2. Once the onion becomes translucent, add the minced meat. Cook until it turns golden, stirring frequently to prevent clumping.
3. Grate the carrot and add it to the pan along with the finely chopped mushrooms. These will add moisture and a pleasant texture to the filling.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and chili paste, adjusting the amount according to your personal taste. Let the mixture simmer over medium heat until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
5. Finally, add the chopped parsley and mix well. Allow the filling to cool completely.

Step 3: Forming the pies

1. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into 8 equal balls. This can be done by cutting the dough with a knife or by weight.
2. On a floured surface, roll out each ball into round shapes, about 0.5 cm thick. Try to make them the size of a cereal bowl.
3. Place a portion of filling on one half of the dough circle, leaving the edge free. Brush this edge with the beaten egg to help seal the pies.
4. Fold the pie in half, pressing firmly on the edges with your fingers to prevent the filling from leaking during baking. Make a few light slits on the top of the pie with the tip of a knife to allow steam to escape.
5. Place the pies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and brush them with the remaining egg to achieve a golden and shiny crust.

Step 4: Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). This is the ideal temperature for baking the pies, ensuring they brown evenly.
2. Bake the pies for about 30 minutes or until they are golden and crispy. During this time, the aroma will fill the house, and your patience will surely be rewarded.

Serving and variations

Spicy English pies are delicious served warm, but also cold, making them perfect as appetizers or snacks. You can pair them with a fresh salad or yogurt sauces to enhance the tasting experience. Additionally, the filling can be adapted to your preferences: you can try cheese and spinach for a vegetarian version or chicken with vegetables for a different approach.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can replace traditional flour with a gluten-free option, but make sure to add a binding agent, such as xanthan gum, to achieve a similar texture.

2. How can I store the pies?
You can keep the pies in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

3. Can I freeze the pies?
Absolutely! Unbaked pies can be frozen. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in freezer bags. When you want to enjoy them, you can bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

These spicy English pies are not only an excellent choice for family dinners but also a wonderful way to experiment in the kitchen. With a combination of bold flavors and a crunchy texture, they are sure to be appreciated by everyone. Remember, cooking is an art, but also a pleasure – do not hesitate to add your own variations and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen. Enjoy your meal!