Savory Mushroom And Lentil Hand Pies: A Delicious Vegan Treat
Are you a fan of comfort food that combines savory flavors with a flaky crust? Look no further than savory mushroom and lentil hand pies. These delectable treats are packed with earthy mushrooms, protein-rich lentils, and aromatic herbs, all encased in a golden and crispy pastry. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or simply in search of a meatless option, these hand pies are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Join us as we dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe.
Ingredients
Before we venture further, let’s take a look at the ingredients that will bring these delightful hand pies to life. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups of mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or your favorite variety)
- 1 cup of cooked lentils (brown or green lentils work best)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 sheets of vegan puff pastry
- 1 tablespoon of plant-based milk for brushing
Preparing the Filling
The key to a delectable hand pie lies in the filling, and the savory mushroom and lentil filling is no exception. To begin, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, until fragrant.
Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook them until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. Once the mushrooms are cooked, incorporate the cooked lentils and mix well. Season the mixture with soy sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for a few minutes over low heat. Keep the filling aside and let’s move on to the next step.
Assembling the Hand Pies
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, it’s time to assemble the hand pies. Roll out the vegan puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to create two large rectangles, about 1/8 inch thick.
Using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter, divide each pastry sheet into individual squares or rectangles, depending on the size of the hand pies you desire. Spoon a generous amount of the mushroom and lentil filling onto each cut-out pastry shape, leaving enough border to fold and seal the edges.
Once the filling is placed, gently fold the pastry over the filling to create a pocket. Use a fork to firmly press the edges and seal the hand pies. Repeat this process until all the pastry and filling have been used.
Baking and Serving the Hand Pies
Transfer the prepared hand pies onto a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving enough space between each one to allow for even cooking. Lightly glaze the tops of the hand pies with plant-based milk using a pastry brush. This will give them a lovely golden color once baked.
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the hand pies for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Once the hand pies are golden and inviting, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These savory mushroom and lentil hand pies make a fantastic main course, especially when paired with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
If you’re seeking a flavorful and satisfying vegan dish, look no further than savory mushroom and lentil hand pies. With their flaky pastry and hearty filling, they’re sure to please both plant-based and omnivorous taste buds alike. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a comforting meal, these hand pies are a versatile and delicious choice. So, get your apron on, prepare the filling, encase it in pastry, and let the aroma of these savory pies fill your home.
*Source www.tastingtable.com
