Mini pies with beef and chicken

Mini beef and chicken pies: a delicacy that brings joy with every bite

Who can resist a steaming pie, filled with succulent meat, perfectly cooked and wrapped in a light, crispy puff pastry? Mini beef and chicken pies are not only an excellent choice for parties but also a delicious snack for indulgent moments at home. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step, providing you with useful tips and interesting information to achieve perfect results.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12 mini pies

Necessary ingredients:

- 300 g minced beef
- 1/2 boneless chicken breast
- 1 onion
- 200 g tomatoes in puree (or fresh tomatoes, if you prefer)
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons semolina
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill
- Fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 50 g cheese
- 1/2 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

The first step in making mini pies is to ensure that all ingredients are prepared. Start by thawing the puff pastry, leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the dough to become easier to shape and will help achieve a fluffy texture.

Meanwhile, peel and finely chop the onion. You can use either canned or fresh tomatoes - if using canned, make sure to choose those with low salt content. Wash the chicken breast well, pat it dry with a kitchen towel, and cut it into small, uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Cooking the filling

In a pan, add the two tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and tomatoes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the tomatoes release their juice.

Then, add the minced beef and chicken cubes. Mix well to prevent the meat from clumping together. It is important to continue stirring so that the meat cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors from the pan.

Once the mixture starts to simmer, pour in a cup of water and let it simmer on low heat. At this stage, the meat will become very tender. After about 10 minutes, check if most of the water has evaporated. Season with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika, mixing well. Finally, add the chopped fresh dill, which will add a touch of freshness to the filling.

Step 3: Cooling the filling

After the filling has been cooked, remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. This step is essential because if the filling is too hot when added to the dough, it can make it soft and sticky.

Step 4: Preparing the dough

While the filling cools, prepare your work surface. Sprinkle a little flour on the surface and place the puff pastry. Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough slightly to achieve an even thickness. Then, cut out circles using a glass or a cookie cutter.

Step 5: Assembling the mini pies

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit).

Grease a muffin tin with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Place the dough circles in the muffin cups, ensuring the edges are slightly raised. Fill each circle with the meat mixture, leaving a little space in the center.

For an extra flavor boost, slice the cheese into thin strips and place a strip on top of each pie. The cheese will melt during baking, adding a delicious creamy layer to every bite.

Step 6: Baking

Once filled, place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the mini pies for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy. The aroma that will fill your kitchen during baking will be irresistible!

Step 7: Serving

When the mini pies are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly in the tray, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These pies can be served warm or at room temperature and are perfect to enjoy alongside a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt dip.

Useful tips and variations

1. Filling variations: You can try adding vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling. Additionally, for a more intense flavor, you can add spices like garlic, oregano, or thyme.

2. Dough: If you do not have puff pastry on hand, you can use pie dough or make it at home.

3. Freezing: These mini pies can be easily frozen. Prepare them, let them cool, then place them in an airtight container and freeze. When you want to serve them, you can bake them straight from the freezer, extending the baking time by a few minutes.

Nutritional benefits

These mini pies are an excellent source of protein due to the beef and chicken. Adding vegetables contributes to fiber and vitamin intake. Additionally, with a moderate calorie content, they can be included in a balanced diet. One pie has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of filling and the type of dough used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use pork instead of beef? Yes, this recipe is versatile, and you can replace the beef with any other type of meat you prefer.

2. How can I make these mini pies healthier? You can reduce the amount of oil or use whole wheat dough to add extra fiber.

3. Can I serve them at a party? Absolutely! These mini pies are perfect as appetizers or snacks at parties, being easy to eat and very tasty.

In conclusion, mini beef and chicken pies are not only a delicious choice but also an opportunity to experiment in the kitchen. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, they are sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 300 g minced beef 1/2 boneless chicken breast 1 onion 200 g tomatoes in juice 1 egg 2 teaspoons semolina salt 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika pepper dill fresh parsley 2 tablespoons oil 50 g cheese 1/2 sheet puff pastry