Savory Hand Pies are your next go-to comfort food. Perfectly flaky pastry envelops a delicious filling of seasoned beef, fresh spinach, and tangy feta. These little parcels are ideal for any meal or occasion, making them both versatile and delightful.
The magic begins with all-purpose flour, which forms the base of our flaky pastry. The key to achieving a perfect texture is using cold unsalted butter, which creates steam pockets in the dough for that delightful crispiness. A touch of salt enhances the flavor, while ice water helps the ingredients bind without melting the butter.
For the filling, olive oil is used to sauté the onion and garlic, providing a fragrant base. The ground beef adds heartiness and protein, complemented by the freshness of spinach. Feta cheese brings a tangy bite, while dried oregano adds a hint of Mediterranean flavor. To finish, a simple seasoning of salt and pepper ties everything together.
Savory Hand Pies pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or a bowl of hearty soup. For a more indulgent meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a light yogurt dip to complement the flavors.
Start by tackling the pastry. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly incorporate the ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
While your dough is resting, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the onion and garlic, sautéing until they're soft and translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until it's nicely browned, making sure to drain any excess fat. Stir in the spinach, allowing it to wilt down, then add the feta cheese, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Let the filling cool while you prepare the dough.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a 4-inch cutter to stamp out circles. Place a spoonful of the beef and spinach mixture onto each circle, fold the dough over, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal them shut.
Arrange the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each pie with a bit of the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish. Slide them into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Let them cool slightly before diving in.
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