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Portuguese Rissois

Delicious Portuguese Rissois: Crispy Hand Pies to Love

Experience the comforting delight of Portuguese Rissois, crispy hand pies filled with versatile ingredients for all tastes.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 pieces
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Portuguese
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 2 tablespoons butter Can substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 medium onion Red or shallots can be used for a sweeter taste.
  • 1 stalk celery Leeks or fennel can be alternatives.
  • 1 cup milk Use almond milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro or parsley Substitute with dill for a different herbal note.
  • 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce Adjust to taste; omit for a milder flavor.
  • to taste salt and white pepper Black pepper can be used as a substitute for white.
  • 1 pinch nutmeg Omit if unavailable or substitute with allspice.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Flour can be used as a thickening agent instead.
  • 2 cups cooked protein Any pre-cooked protein can work.
For the Dough
  • 2 cups flour Gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 large egg Flaxseed meal can be used as a vegan substitute for binding.
For Coating
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko breadcrumbs can add extra crispiness.
  • 2-3 inches oil (for frying) Canola oil can be a neutral alternative.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden Spoon
  • round cutter or glass
  • slotted spoon
  • paper towel

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Portuguese Rissois
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté 1 diced onion and 1 chopped celery stalk until golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Gradually add 1 cup of milk, heating until hot (but not boiling). Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro or parsley, 1 teaspoon of hot pepper sauce, and season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the hot mixture until thickened. Fold in 2 cups of cooked protein and heat through, then let cool slightly.
  2. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of butter, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is scalding, just before boiling. Gradually add 2 cups of flour, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. Continue stirring until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead briefly until smooth, about 1-2 minutes, then cover to rest.
  3. Roll out the prepared dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or glass to cut out circles, approximately 3-4 inches in diameter. Place 1 tablespoon of the cooled filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal securely, ensuring no filling escapes. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
  4. In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat 2-3 inches of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Working in batches, carefully place the assembled rissois in the hot oil, frying them for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked rissois to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve hot or allow to cool completely before transferring to the freezer for later enjoyment.

Notes

These rissois are perfect for freezing and can be kept for up to 3 months. Fry them directly from the freezer for a quick snack.