savory hand pies

Preparation Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Intensity: Moderate

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
   • Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to quickly cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add cold water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. You may not need to use all of the water.
   • Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling:
   • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
   • Add shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until vegetables are tender.
   • In a small bowl, mix chicken or vegetable broth with flour to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the skillet and stir until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. Assemble the Hand Pies:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles for the hand pies.
   • Place a spoonful of the cooled filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press and seal the edges of the hand pies. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
4. Bake the Hand Pies:
   • Beat the egg in a small bowl to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the hand pies with the egg wash for a golden finish.
   • Place the assembled hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
5. Serve:
   • Remove the savory hand pies from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Note: You can customize the filling by using different meats (such as beef or turkey), adding cheese, or incorporating herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.