Chorizo - pepper hand pies are a wonderful addition to your dinner and meal ideas. These savory pies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious, offering a burst of flavors in every bite. In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of creating these mouth - watering hand pies.
First, let's talk about the ingredients. For the filling, you'll need chorizo, which is a type of spicy sausage that adds a bold and zesty flavor. You can choose between fresh or cured chorizo, depending on your preference. Fresh chorizo has a softer texture and a more intense flavor, while cured chorizo is drier and has a more concentrated taste. Along with chorizo, you'll need peppers. Bell peppers are a great choice as they come in a variety of colors, each with its own unique flavor profile. Red peppers are sweet, yellow peppers are mild, and green peppers have a slightly bitter edge. You can use a combination of different colored peppers to add visual appeal and a range of flavors to your hand pies.
Other essential ingredients for the filling include onions, garlic, and some herbs and spices. Onions add a sweet and savory base, while garlic brings a pungent and aromatic note. Herbs like oregano and thyme can enhance the overall flavor of the filling, giving it a Mediterranean touch. Spices such as paprika and cumin can add a bit of heat and depth to the dish.
Now, let's move on to the dough. You can use a simple pie crust dough for these hand pies. You can either make the dough from scratch or use a pre - made pie crust from the store. If you're making the dough from scratch, you'll need flour, butter, salt, and water. The key to a flaky and tender pie crust is to handle the dough gently and not overwork it. Cut the butter into small pieces and incorporate it into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Then, add water gradually and mix until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour to allow the gluten to relax.
Once you have your filling and dough ready, it's time to assemble the hand pies. Preheat your oven to a suitable temperature, usually around 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it's about 1/8 - inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half - moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal the pies.
Before baking, you can brush the top of the hand pies with an egg wash to give them a golden and shiny crust. You can also sprinkle some sea salt or additional herbs on top for extra flavor. Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them in the preheated oven for about 20 - 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Chorizo - pepper hand pies are a versatile dish. They can be served as a main course for dinner, paired with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables. They also make a great snack or appetizer. You can even pack them for a picnic or a lunch on the go. The combination of the spicy chorizo, sweet peppers, and flaky crust makes these hand pies a crowd - pleaser.
Moreover, you can customize the filling according to your taste. If you like it spicier, you can add some jalapenos or red pepper flakes. If you want to add more protein, you can mix in some cooked ground beef or turkey. You can also experiment with different types of cheeses, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to add a gooey and cheesy element to the hand pies.
In conclusion, chorizo - pepper hand pies are a fantastic option for your dinner and meal ideas. They are easy to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to suit your preferences. So, the next time you're looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, give these savory pies a try.
