Prairie Pepper Pasties

Introduction to Prairie Pepper Pasties

Prairie Pepper Pasties are a delightful fusion of hearty ingredients encased in a flakey and buttery pastry crust. Originating from the Midwest, these pasties have filled bellies and warmed hearts for generations, adapting over time to include regional flavors and personal touches. Inspired by the traditional Cornish pasty brought over by miners, this version incorporates the spice of peppers for an added flavor boost, resonating with the picturesque prairies of the American heartland. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack, these pasties will transport you with every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 egg, beaten

Preparation of the Dough

Start by preparing the pastry dough for the Prairie Pepper Pasties. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the diced butter and work it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together into a ball. Be careful not to overwork the dough. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For more precise timing, set a cooking timer.

Preparing the Filling

While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Add the onion and potato, cooking until the onion is translucent and the potato is tender. Stir in the diced red bell pepper and green bell pepper, allowing them to sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften. Season the mixture with black pepper, thyme, and paprika, adjusting spices to taste. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.

Assembling the Pasties

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Retrieve the chilled dough from the fridge and divide it into 8 equal parts. Roll each part into a circle approximately 6-8 inches in diameter. Place a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border for sealing. Lightly brush the edges of the dough with beaten egg to help seal. Fold the dough over the filling, crimping the edges with a fork to enclose. Carefully place the pasties onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of the pasties with the remaining beaten egg to give them a golden hue during baking.

Cooking

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the pasties are golden brown. Set a cooking timer to ensure you do not overbake them. Allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoying Prairie Pepper Pasties

These Prairie Pepper Pasties are best enjoyed warm. They can be served on their own or with a simple side salad to enhance the savory experience. Their portable nature makes them perfect for enjoying on a lovely picnic amidst your own local "prairie" scenery. Pair with a refreshing beverage to balance the spicy undertones of the peppers. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they can be reheated in the oven for a quick and easy meal.

Conclusion

The Prairie Pepper Pasties offer a taste of tradition and innovation, combining classic ingredients with a spicy twist. With a flaky crust and savory filling, they are sure to become a household favorite.