The aroma of roasted pumpkin and sizzling chorizo wafts through my kitchen, promising comfort and warmth with every bite. If you’re craving a dish that highlights the best of autumn flavors, these savory pumpkin and chorizo hand-pies with hot-water pastry are your answer. Not only are they a delightfully different take on traditional pastries, but they’re also a quick and satisfying way to impress friends at your next gathering. The combination of sweet caramelized onion and spicy chorizo creates a filling that’s both rich and balanced, ensuring your taste buds won’t be bored. Plus, they’re perfect for a cozy night in, served warm alongside a glass of wine. Are you ready to dive into making these scrumptious hand-pies?
Why are these hand-pies irresistible?
Savory Comfort: These hand-pies combine fall flavors with a gourmet touch, elevating your snack game to new heights!
Easy Process: Following a straightforward method, even beginner chefs can master this dish without stress.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, they’re sure to impress friends and family, sparking conversation like Savory Chicken Cheesy!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adapt the filling by adding your favorite cheeses or herbs for a unique twist.
Quick Prep and Serve: With a make-ahead option, enjoy delightful bites with minimal fuss after a long day—just reheat and savor!
Chorizo, Pumpkin and Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies Ingredients
For the Pastry
- Plain Flour (2½ cups or 375g) – This structure is key to achieving a flaky, golden pastry; whole wheat flour can provide a heartier texture.
- Water – Essential for binding the pastry; using cold water can help ensure a tender crust.
- Fat (unspecified) – Adds richness and a lovely crumb; consider using butter for added flavor.
For the Filling
- Fresh Chorizo (400g) – Offers a spicy depth to the filling; turkey sausage works for those looking for a milder flavor.
- Pumpkin – Brings natural sweetness and moisture; canned pumpkin is a great convenient alternative.
- Caramelized Onion – Adds a lovely sweetness to balance the spice; pre-packaged versions can save time.
- Sage Leaves – Infuses the filling with a fragrant herbaceous note; swap for thyme if you desire a different flavor profile.
This combination of ingredients ensures that your chorizo, pumpkin, and caramelised onion hand-pies turn out to be a comforting and satisfying treat, perfect for any occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chorizo, Pumpkin and Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F). While the oven is warming up, prepare your pumpkin by cutting it into chunks. Place the pumpkin on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Roast for about 25-30 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the fresh chorizo and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, for about 5-7 minutes until nicely browned. Then, stir in sage leaves and chopped onions, cooking them together for another 5-7 minutes until the onions are golden and softened. The filling will develop a rich aroma that enhances the chorizo, pumpkin and caramelised onion hand-pies.
Step 3: Combine and Cool the Filling
Once the pumpkin is roasted, let it cool slightly before adding it to the cooked chorizo and onions in the skillet. Gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring a balanced mixture of sweet pumpkin and savory chorizo. Allow the filling to cool further, as it should be at room temperature before assembling the hand-pies to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
Step 4: Prepare the Pastry
In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour with fat and hot water, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap the hot-water pastry in plastic wrap and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This resting period will ensure your pastry is tender and easy to work with when forming the chorizo, pumpkin and caramelised onion hand-pies.
Step 5: Roll and Cut the Pastry
After resting, divide the dough into manageable pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each piece until it’s about 3-4mm thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the rolled dough, making sure to gather any scraps and re-roll them to make more rounds. Aim for uniform sizes, as this will help the hand-pies cook evenly.
Step 6: Fill and Seal the Hand-Pies
Take a dough circle and place a generous spoonful of the cooled filling in the center. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together firmly to seal. To ensure a tight seal, use a fork to crimp the edges. Repeat this process until all the pastry and filling are used, assembling each chorizo, pumpkin and caramelised onion hand-pie with care.
Step 7: Bake the Hand-Pies
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the filled hand-pies on the tray. Brush the tops with a beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden finish. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky. You’ll know they are ready when the kitchen is filled with their irresistible aroma, urging you to dig in.
Step 8: Serve and Savor
Once baked, remove the hand-pies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a rack. Serve warm, perhaps accompanied by a chilled glass of Pinot Noir. The combination of flaky pastry and rich filling in these chorizo, pumpkin and caramelised onion hand-pies makes for a truly comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on a cozy night in.
Expert Tips for Chorizo, Pumpkin and Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies
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Chill Ingredients: Use cold water and fat for the pastry; this ensures a flaky texture when baked, perfect for your chorizo, pumpkin and caramelised onion hand-pies.
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Cool Filling: Always allow the filling to cool before assembly; using hot filling can cause the pastry to become soggy or break during baking.
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Seal Properly: Avoid overfilling the hand-pies to ensure they seal properly. Too much filling can lead to leaking during baking, so keep it generous but reasonable.
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Knead Gently: When preparing the hot-water pastry, knead just until smooth; over-kneading can toughen the dough, making it less flaky.
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Uniform Sizing: Roll the pastry evenly to ensure uniform cooking. This helps achieve that golden-brown finish on every single chorizo, pumpkin and caramelised onion hand-pie.
Chorizo, Pumpkin and Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies Variations
Feel free to personalize these hand-pies, creating a unique twist that suits your taste buds and imagination!
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Sweet Potato: Substitute pumpkin with sweet potato for a slightly different sweetness and texture. The creamy filling pairs beautifully with the flaky pastry.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling for an aromatic boost. The subtle flavors complement the richness of chorizo and onions.
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Cheesy Addition: Incorporate a cheese blend such as feta or goat cheese into the filling for extra richness. The creamy texture offers a delightful contrast with each bite.
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Spicy Kick: For an extra kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Feel the warmth dance on your palate, perfect for those who love some heat.
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Creamy Elements: Add a dollop of cream cheese to the filling for added creaminess and a tangy flavor. This twist creates an irresistible contrast with the savory filling.
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Veggie Delight: Toss in some finely chopped spinach or kale to boost the nutrition of your filling. This adds color and a hint of earthiness that pairs nicely with the other flavors.
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Mushroom Medley: Sauté some mushrooms along with the onions for an umami boost. The earthy flavor of mushrooms elevates the hand-pies, resonating well with wine pairings.
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Savory Sweets: Drizzle a touch of honey over the filling before sealing for a sweet-savory balance. This unexpected combination might just surprise your taste buds in the best way!
These variations allow you to explore different dimensions of flavor while enjoying the comforting essence of your chorizo, pumpkin and caramelised onion hand-pies, making every bite a delightful experience!
How to Store and Freeze Chorizo, Pumpkin and Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies
Airtight Container: Store baked hand-pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their deliciously flaky texture.
Refrigeration: If you’ve filled hand-pies with leftover filling but haven’t baked them yet, they can be stored in the fridge for 1–2 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled but unbaked hand-pies, wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat baked chorizo, pumpkin and caramelised onion hand-pies, place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
What to Serve with Savory Pumpkin and Chorizo Hand-Pies?
Creating a delightful meal experience around these hand-pies is a treat for the senses and perfect for cozy gatherings.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness complements the savory filling, adding a comforting, indulgent side to your meal.
- Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette brightens the palate and balances the flavorful hand-pies beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies caramelize and add depth; consider parsnips and carrots to enhance warmth and sweetness.
- Warming Tomato Soup: The classic pairing provides a comforting bowl of warmth that brings out the spices in the hand-pies.
- Spicy Salsa: A zesty salsa gives a fresh kick, enhancing the taste profile with a delicious burst of flavor next to the hand-pies.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery and fragrant garlic bread makes for a deliciously satisfying option to mop up any leftover tastes, blending perfectly with the richness of the filling.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a subtly chilled Pinot Noir pairs excellently, elevating your dining experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note; the rich, creamy dessert provides a delightful contrast after the savory hand-pies.
- Apple Tart: This warm dessert offers a hint of sweetness that echoes the flavors of fall, making it a comforting finish to your meal.
Make Ahead Options
These chorizo, pumpkin and caramelised onion hand-pies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance by roasting the pumpkin and cooking the chorizo and onions, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The pastry can also be made ahead; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, roll out the pastry, fill the hand-pies, and bake as directed. This approach not only saves you time but ensures your hand-pies retain their delicious flavor and flaky texture, so you can enjoy gourmet comfort food even on the busiest days!
Chorizo, Pumpkin and Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe pumpkins for the filling?
When picking pumpkins, look for ones that are firm, without soft spots or blemishes. A ripe pumpkin should feel heavy for its size and have a deep, rich color. Ideally, you want to choose a sugar pumpkin for the sweetest and smoothest filling.
How should I store leftover chorizo, pumpkin and caramelised onion hand-pies?
Store baked hand-pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; they will retain their delightful flakiness. If you need to store them longer, it’s best to refrigerate them, which can extend their freshness for another day or two.
Can I freeze these hand-pies, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked hand-pies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap individually, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just pop them straight into a preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What if my pastry dough is too sticky or dry?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add a bit more flour until it’s manageable but not overly dry. Conversely, if it’s too dry, incorporate a little extra water to achieve the right consistency. Remember, a well-balanced dough is key to those flaky chorizo, pumpkin and caramelised onion hand-pies!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
For those with allergies, be mindful of ingredients such as chorizo, which may contain gluten or allergens from specific spices. You can always use turkey sausage or omit chorizo and focus on a savory vegetarian filling if needed. Additionally, ensure any toppings or accompaniments align with dietary restrictions.
Delicious Chorizo, Pumpkin and Caramelised Onion Hand-Pies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Prepare pumpkin by cutting into chunks, place on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, season lightly with salt and pepper, and roast for about 25-30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat, add fresh chorizo and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned, then stir in sage leaves and chopped onions, cooking for another 5-7 minutes.
- Once pumpkin is roasted, let cool slightly before adding it to the skillet with chorizo and onions. Fold ingredients together and allow the filling to cool to room temperature.
- In a mixing bowl, combine plain flour with fat and hot water until a sticky dough forms. Knead gently for about 5 minutes, wrap in plastic wrap, and let rest for about 15-20 minutes.
- Divide dough into manageable pieces. Roll out each piece to about 3-4mm thick and cut out circles with a round cutter or glass.
- Place a generous spoonful of cooled filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold into a half-moon shape and press edges to seal. Crimp edges with a fork.
- Preheat oven; line a baking tray with parchment paper, arrange filled hand-pies, brush tops with a beaten egg, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow hand-pies to cool slightly on a rack and serve warm, preferably with a chilled glass of Pinot Noir.