There’s something comforting about a steaming bowl of chicken soup with rice, warming both the body and soul. In this culinary journey, we’ll explore a delightful twist on this classic dish – Savory Chicken and Rice Hand Pies. These hand pies encapsulate the rich flavors of traditional chicken soup with rice but add a convenient and portable element. Perfect for those on-the-go or looking for a creative way to enjoy a beloved dish, these hand pies are sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
Ingredients: To embark on this savory adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 250 grams of chicken breast
- 100 grams of rice
- 1 potato
- 2 carrots
- 2 tomatoes
- ½ onion
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 liter of water
- Olive oil
- Salt
Preparation:
- Start by placing all the chicken in a pot, covering it with enough water. Add the finely chopped half onion, the garlic clove, and a pinch of salt. Include the peeled and chopped potatoes and carrots in the mix.
- In a separate frying pan, heat olive oil and add the peeled and chopped tomatoes along with a bit more garlic. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and fry the tomatoes until they release their rich flavors.
- Combine the contents of the frying pan with the boiling water in the first pot. This infusion will create a robust base for the hand pies.
- Introduce the rice to the pot, allowing it to cook over low heat for the next 20-25 minutes. This ensures the rice absorbs all the delightful flavors, becoming an integral part of the savory mixture.
- Once the ingredients have melded into a delicious concoction, remove the pot from the heat. Using a ladle or a large spoon, carefully transfer this aromatic chicken broth with rice into a saucepan.
Assembly of Savory Hand Pies: Now that we have our flavorful filling, it’s time to assemble the hand pies. This step-by-step guide will help you create the perfect handheld meal.
- Prepare the Pastry: Whether you opt for store-bought puff pastry or decide to make your own, ensure it’s rolled out and ready for filling.
- Cutting and Filling: Use a round cutter to create circles from the pastry. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and rice mixture onto one half of each circle.
- Sealing the Pies: Fold the pastry over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing them together with a fork, ensuring no delicious goodness escapes during baking.
- Ventilation is Key: Use a sharp knife to make a small slit on the top of each pie. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the pies from becoming too soggy.
- Baking Time: Place the assembled hand pies on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven until they turn golden brown. The aroma wafting from the oven will be irresistible.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, let the hand pies cool for a few minutes before serving. These savory delights can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion: Savory Chicken and Rice Hand Pies offer a playful take on the timeless classic of chicken soup with rice. The portable, handheld nature of these pies makes them a versatile and convenient option for lunch, dinner, or even a tasty snack. The carefully curated blend of ingredients ensures a burst of flavor in every bite, while the golden, flaky pastry adds a satisfying crunch. This innovative twist on a cherished dish is not only delicious but also a testament to the joy of culinary creativity. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and embark on a journey of flavor with these delectable hand pies. Your taste buds will thank you.
