Indulge in the delightful world of homemade mini fried beef pies, a recipe that transforms simple ingredients into bite-sized treasures of savory goodness. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a unique addition to your mealtime spread, these pies combine the rich flavor of beef with a golden, crispy exterior. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure to create these miniature delights, where every bite is a blend of comforting flavors and textures.
Crispy Mini Beef Pies
Ingredients:
- For the Filling:
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
- For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in the beef broth and tomato paste, simmering until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Let the filling cool.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough comes together. Form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Assemble the Pies:
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a small round cutter.
- Place a small spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork.
- Fry the Pies:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a deep skillet to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the pies in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve: Enjoy your mini fried beef pies warm, perhaps with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad for a complete snack or meal.
This recipe invites you to experience the joy of cooking from scratch, promising a delightful result that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something uniquely delicious, these mini fried beef pies will not disappoint.
