Description

Imagine a warm, flaky pastry filled with tender, savory beef and melted, gooey cheddar cheese. That’s the beauty of Beef and Cheddar Hand Pies. Originating from the humble British tradition of portable pies, this recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. What makes this dish extra special? It's the perfect blend of simple, quality ingredients and the sheer delight of crafting a homemade pastry. This is not just a recipe, it's a culinary journey that allows you to experience the joy of creating something truly delicious from scratch. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a party or just want a cozy dinner at home, these hand pies are the perfect choice.

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
• - 2 cups all-purpose flour
• - 1 teaspoon salt
• - 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• - 1/2 cup ice-cold water
• For the Filling:
• - 1 lb ground beef
• - 1 onion, finely chopped
• - 2 cloves garlic, minced
• - 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• - Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Egg Wash:
• - 1 large egg
• - 1 tablespoon water
• Note: If you're vegetarian, you can substitute the beef with a mixture of mushrooms and lentils for a hearty alternative.

Preparation Method

Start by making the dough. Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Gradually add the ice-cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap it in plastic and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

While the dough is resting, you can prepare the filling. In a large frying pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it's nicely browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and continue to cook, stirring occasionally until the onion is softened. Season with salt and pepper to taste and set it aside to cool. Once cooled, stir in the grated cheddar cheese.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the dough. Place a spoonful of the beef and cheddar filling in the center of each circle, then fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp with a fork for a decorative touch.

In a small bowl, beat together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush each hand pie with the egg wash, which will give them a golden, glossy finish. Arrange the pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they're golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Tips and Conclusion

Serve these hand pies with a dollop of sour cream and a side of fresh salad for a complete meal. If you have any leftover pies, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for a quick and easy snack.

Preparing these Beef and Cheddar Hand Pies is a delightful experience, from crafting the dough to savoring the final bite. Its a recipe that brings together the simple pleasures of cooking and the comfort of a homemade meal.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like our Chicken Pot Pie or our Vegetable Pasty recipes. Share your creations with us and continue to explore the site for more delicious recipes. Cooking is an adventure, and were thrilled to be part of yours. Happy baking!