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Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Dilute Salt in Water:
In a small bowl, dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 22 centiliters (220ml) of water.
Make the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, add 400g wheat flour. Gradually pour in the salted water while stirring. Knead the mixture until a smooth dough forms.
Rest the Dough:
Cover the dough and let it rest for 20 minutes at room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
Chop the Garlic and Green Onions:
Finely chop 1 garlic clove and 100g green onions. Set aside.
Mix the Beef Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine 300g ground beef, chopped garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, a dash of ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Add Green Onions:
Fold the minced green onions into the beef mixture. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Knead and Divide the Dough:
After the initial rest, knead the dough again for 5 minutes. Divide the dough into 8 equal parts.
Shape the Dough:
Roll each portion into a small cylinder. Coat the pieces lightly with olive oil, cover, and let them rest for 1 hour at room temperature.
Step 4: Assemble the Pies
Roll Out the Dough:
Lightly oil your work surface and rolling pin. Take one piece of dough and flatten it with your hands. Then, use the rolling pin to roll it out into a thin circle.
Fill the Dough:
Place a portion of the prepared beef filling on one end of the dough. Stretch the dough over the filling and gently roll it, tucking in the edges as you go.
Shape the Pie:
Stretch the dough gently to create thin layers, then twist the ends to seal. Flatten each pie gently with your hands.
Step 5: Cook the Pies
Pan Fry the Pies:
Heat 1 centimeter of olive oil in a pan over low-medium heat. Add the pies and cover the pan with a lid. Cook for 5 minutes, flipping the pies occasionally.
Finish Cooking:
Remove the lid and continue frying the pies for an additional 5 minutes, flipping frequently, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Remove the pies from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy these pies as a snack or with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.
Pair with a fresh salad or soup for a more substantial meal.
Cooking Tips:
Resting the dough is key to making it more elastic and easy to work with, ensuring the pastry layers become light and flaky.
Use low-medium heat when frying to ensure the pies cook through without burning.
Nutritional Benefits:
Ground beef is a great source of protein and iron, while green onions and garlic offer added nutrition and flavor.
Cumin adds an aromatic touch and is known for its digestive benefits.
Storage:
Store leftover pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or oven to restore crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Crispy and Flaky: The puff pastry dough creates light, crispy layers that contrast perfectly with the savory beef filling.
Simple Ingredients: With basic pantry staples and ground beef, you can create a delicious meal that feels indulgent.
Versatile: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or part of a main meal, these pies are easy to enjoy at any time.
Conclusion:
These Chinese beef puff pastry pies are a flavorful and satisfying dish, with crispy golden layers on the outside and a juicy, spiced beef filling on the inside. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or as part of a meal, these pies are sure to be a hit. The simple puff pastry technique and easy-to-make filling make this recipe a go-to for any occasion.
Enjoy your delicious beef puff pastry pies!