Savory Chinese Stuffed Pies

Experience a delightful twist on traditional comfort food with these Chinese Stuffed Pies. This recipe merges the rich, savory flavors of minced meat, potatoes, and onions with a dash of spices, all encased in a tender, flaky crust made from scratch. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, a festive gathering, or even as a tasty snack, these pies will transport your taste buds on a culinary adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe offers an enjoyable cooking experience with delicious rewards. Let’s get started and create something truly special!

INGREDIENTS:

Dough Ingredients:

  • 750 grams flour
  • 300 grams butter
  • 200 grams sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3 eggs (remove one yolk)

Filling Ingredients:

  • 400 grams minced meat
  • 3 potatoes
  • 4 onions
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Cumin (zira), to taste
  • Coriander, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

Dough Preparation:

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together 750 grams of flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of salt.
  2. Add Butter: Incorporate 300 grams of butter into the flour mixture. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 whole eggs and 1 egg white with 200 grams of sour cream.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the egg and sour cream mixture to the flour and butter, stirring until a dough begins to form.
  5. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Filling Preparation:

  1. Cook Potatoes and Onions: Peel and dice 3 potatoes and 4 onions. In a pan over medium heat, cook the onions until they’re translucent. Add the diced potatoes and cook until just tender.
  2. Prepare Meat: In another pan, cook 400 grams of minced meat until browned. Season with salt, pepper, cumin (zira), and coriander to taste.
  3. Combine Filling: Mix the cooked meat, potatoes, and onions together. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Assembling and Baking:

  1. Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
  2. Roll Out Dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  3. Cut Out Circles: Use a round cutter or a cup to cut out circles from the dough.
  4. Add Filling: Spoon some of the filling onto one half of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill.
  5. Seal Pies: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork.
  6. Prepare for Baking: Beat the reserved egg yolk and brush over the top of each pie for a golden finish.
  7. Bake: Place pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

These Chinese Stuffed Pies are the perfect blend of savory flavors encased in a flaky, buttery crust. They’re versatile for any meal—serve them at brunch, lunch, or as a hearty dinner. This recipe is not only delicious but also provides a fun and rewarding cooking experience.

Serving Suggestions

: Enjoy these stuffed pies fresh from the oven with a side of light soy sauce for dipping. They pair wonderfully with a simple cucumber salad or a tangy coleslaw to add freshness to the meal. For a complete dinner, serve alongside a hot soup or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Tips:

  • Ensure the butter is cold when cutting it into the flour, which helps achieve a flaky dough.
  • Don’t overwork the dough; mix just until combined to keep the crust tender.
  • Let the filling cool slightly before filling the dough to prevent it from becoming soggy.
  • Seal the edges of the pies well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

Nutritional Benefits:

These pies are a good source of protein from the minced meat, providing essential amino acids. Potatoes offer dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, while onions provide antioxidants and vitamin C. The butter in the dough contributes to your daily calcium intake.

Dietary Information:

This recipe contains gluten, dairy, and eggs. It is suitable for those following a non-vegetarian diet but can be adapted for vegetarians by using a meat substitute for the filling. Those with gluten sensitivities can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free blend.

Conclusion:

These Chinese Stuffed Pies are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. They are ideal for anyone looking for a satisfying and flavorful meal that is both filling and nutritious. Whether you’re making a batch for your family or entertaining guests, these pies will impress with their delightful textures and rich flavors. Enjoy the process of making them as much as you enjoy eating them!

This recipe is not just about feeding the stomach but also about enjoying the process of cooking and sharing good food with loved ones.