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Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Filling
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they soften and become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute, stirring to prevent burning.
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), Chinese five-spice powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the peas and green onions, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the peas are heated through and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the beef filling cool slightly. It’s important that the filling cools down before assembling the pies to prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
While the beef filling cools, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Use a sharp knife or a round cutter to cut out circles of puff pastry, depending on the size of your pies. You’ll want the circles to be large enough to hold a generous amount of filling, so aim for about 4 to 5 inches in diameter.
Place a heaping tablespoon of the cooled beef filling in the center of each pastry circle. Be careful not to overfill, as it may cause the pastry to tear during baking.
3. Seal the Pies
To seal the pies, fold the puff pastry over the beef filling, creating a half-moon or crescent shape. Press the edges together to seal the pastry, and then crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they’re securely closed. You can also brush a little water on the edges before pressing them together to help them seal better.
4. Egg Wash and Baking
Place the sealed pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the pies to create a golden, glossy finish when they bake.
Bake the pies in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary. You may need to rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even browning.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the pies are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These pies are best served warm, but they are still delicious at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Chinese Beef Puff Pastry Pies
- Use quality puff pastry: While store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe, make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best results. The flakier the pastry, the better your pies will turn out.
- Customize the filling: Feel free to add extra ingredients to the beef filling, like finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a touch of sesame oil for an added depth of flavor.
- Make them smaller: If you’re serving these pies as appetizers or finger food, you can make them smaller by using a smaller round cutter for the pastry and reducing the amount of filling in each pie.
- Prep ahead: The filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just assemble the pies and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love These Pies
These Chinese Beef Puff Pastry Pies bring together all the best elements of Chinese cuisine—savory beef, aromatic spices, and the satisfying crunch of puff pastry. The golden, flaky exterior gives way to a rich, flavorful filling that is sure to impress your taste buds with every bite.
The versatility of this recipe also makes it perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual family meals to festive gatherings. They’re easy to make in large batches, so whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a batch for later, these pies are a great choice.
Conclusion
Chinese Beef Puff Pastry Pies are an irresistible fusion of Chinese-inspired flavors wrapped in a crisp, golden pastry. They’re simple to prepare, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. The savory beef filling, enhanced with traditional Chinese spices, combined with the light, flaky puff pastry, creates a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, these pies are a delightful way to bring a taste of Chinese cuisine into your kitchen.
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