Hand pies are a delicious, portable snack that can be made with a variety of fillings, but today we’re going to focus on a super tasty beef filling. They’re perfect for lunch, snacks, or even a fun dinner option. Let’s dive into this easy beef hand pies recipe!
What Are Beef Hand Pies?
Beef hand pies are like little pockets of joy filled with seasoned ground beef and other goodies. Think of them as a cross between a taco and a pie, and they’re perfect for on-the-go eating. You can bite into them for a burst of flavor, and they make a great meal or snack.
Why Make Beef Hand Pies?
- Versatile: You can fill them with pretty much anything! While we’re sticking with beef today, feel free to get creative.
- Portable: They’re easy to pack for lunch or take to a picnic.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect even for beginner cooks.
- Kid-Friendly: Hand pies are usually a hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make your beef hand pies. All our ingredients are halal, so you can enjoy them worry-free!
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup cold water
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (make sure it’s halal)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg (beaten, for brushing on top)
How to Prepare Your Beef Hand Pies
Step 1: Make the Dough
Mixing Flour and Butter: In a large bowl, toss the flour and salt together. Add in the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it looks crumbly—like sand.
Add Water: Slowly add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough starts to hold together. Don’t overmix; just combine.
Chilling Time: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps keep the butter cold and ensures flaky crusts!
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir in the paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. If you’re adding peas and carrots, toss them in too! Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.
Cool Down: Once it’s cooked, remove the mixture from heat and let it cool a bit. You don’t want it steaming hot when you fill your pastry.
Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies
Roll Out the Dough: After your dough has chilled, sprinkle some flour on your countertop and roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles that are about 5 inches in diameter—you can use a bowl or a pie cutter for this.
Fill the Dough: Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Don’t overfill—about 2 tablespoons should do!
Seal It Up: Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Use your fingers to crimp the edges and seal them tight. You can also use a fork to press down the edges for an extra seal.
Egg Wash: Place your hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a nice golden color when baked.
Step 4: Bake Those Pies!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the hand pies for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown. The aroma of baking beef pies will have everyone in the house feeling hungry!
Serving Suggestions
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like ketchup or a spicy sauce.
- Side Salad: Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
- Make It a Party: These pies are perfect for parties. Serve them with a variety of dips to make it fun!
Storing Leftovers
If you have some hand pies left, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. They also freeze well—just freeze them before baking and cook straight from frozen when you’re ready to eat.
FAQs About Beef Hand Pies
How can I make the dough ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.
Can I use other meats or fillings?
Absolutely! Chicken, turkey, or even a veggie filling work great. Just remember to adjust the cooking time for raw fillings.
What’s the best way to ensure my pies are crispy?
Make sure your butter is cold when mixing the dough, and don’t skip letting it chill in the fridge. This will help create a flaky and crispy crust.
Are these pies good for freezing?
Yes, they’re perfect for freezing! Just bake them, then let them cool completely before putting them in the freezer. To reheat, bake straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 35-40 minutes.
Can I make these hand pies spicy?
Definitely! Add some chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or your favorite spices into the beef filling for a kick.
Wrapping It Up
Beef hand pies are not only delicious but also a fun cooking project that everyone can enjoy. Whether you make them for a snack, a meal, or a party, they’re sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delightful bite-sized treat!
