These Chinese beef puff pastry pies are an irresistible snack or meal that combines savory, tender beef filling with flaky, crispy pastry. The aromatic blend of garlic, green onions, and seasonings makes the beef filling flavorful, while the crispy layers of dough add a satisfying texture. Whether you’re looking for a hearty snack, a light meal, or an appetizer, these pies are sure to impress. Serve them with a side of soy sauce and chili oil for dipping, or enjoy them on their own!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 400g wheat flour
- 22 centiliters (220ml) water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Olive oil
For the Beef Filling:
- 300g ground beef
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the 400g of wheat flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually add the 220ml of water, stirring with chopsticks or a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.
- Once the dough begins to form, knead it on a clean surface for 5-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and chopped green onions. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, five-spice powder, black pepper, and salt to the beef. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to medium and cook the mixture for another 3-5 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add the cornstarch to the beef mixture and stir well to ensure the filling has a slightly thick consistency. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Pies
- Once the dough has rested, divide it into small balls, roughly 15-20 pieces depending on the size you want for your pies.
- Roll each dough ball into a flat circle, about 8-10 cm in diameter, using a rolling pin. Try to keep the dough as even as possible for uniform pies.
- Place a spoonful of the cooled beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges together to seal the pie. You can use a fork to crimp the edges if you prefer.
- Repeat the process for the remaining dough balls and beef filling.
Step 4: Cook the Pies
- Heat a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and allow it to heat.
- Place the filled pies in the pan, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry the pies for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy.
- Once the pies are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Helpful Tips
- Resting the dough: Allowing the dough to rest after kneading is crucial to ensure the gluten relaxes, making the dough easier to roll out.
- Beef filling consistency: Make sure the beef filling is well-cooked and slightly thickened so it doesn’t leak out when frying.
- Cooking method: These pies can also be baked in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes for a slightly lighter version with a crisp crust.
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground beef: You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Gluten-free dough: For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. However, keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.
- Spices: If you prefer a spicier filling, add some chili flakes or minced fresh chili to the beef mixture.
- Dipping sauce: Serve these pies with soy sauce, chili oil, or a combination of both for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made ahead of time. Simply wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Can I freeze the pies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, uncooked pies. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage. When you’re ready to cook them, simply fry or bake them from frozen, adding an extra couple of minutes to the cooking time.
Can I bake the pies instead of frying them?
Yes, for a lighter version, you can bake the pies in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Nutritional Benefits
- Beef: Ground beef is a great source of protein, iron, and other essential nutrients like vitamin B12, which is vital for red blood cell formation.
- Ginger and Garlic: Both ginger and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, as well as their ability to support digestion and immune function.
- Green Onions: Green onions add a mild, fresh flavor and are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply replace the beef with tofu or another meat alternative.
- Gluten-Free Option: You can substitute the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (Per Pie)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage
- Room Temperature: These pies are best served fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the pies for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature and reheat in a pan or oven.
Conclusion
These Chinese beef puff pastry pies are a fantastic combination of crispy pastry and flavorful beef filling, making them perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, the result is a savory, satisfying pie that everyone will love. The recipe is versatile enough to allow for substitutions, such as using different meats or making it vegetarian. These pies also make for great meal prep, as they can be stored and reheated for later enjoyment. Don’t hesitate to give them a try – they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!