Creamy Mushroom Mini Pie Recipe
Welcome to the delightful world of the Creamy Mushroom Mini Pie, a scrumptious snack that is sure to impress at any gathering or serve as a cozy weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with a rich, creamy filling enveloped in a buttery, flaky pastry. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, these mini pies are the perfect bite-sized indulgence.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Short crust pastry dough | 1 recipe |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Garlic (grated) | 3 cloves |
| Button mushrooms (chopped) | 250 grams |
| Fresh cream | 90 ml |
| Black pepper powder (pounded) | 1 teaspoon |
| Basil leaves (finely chopped) | 1 sprig |
| Sunflower oil | As required |
| Whole egg (for egg wash, or milk) | 1 |
| Sesame seeds (for sprinkling) | A little to sprinkle |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Total Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 2
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough
To begin crafting your Creamy Mushroom Mini Pies, first, gather all your ingredients and prepare the pastry dough according to your favorite recipe for short crust tart pastry. Once the dough is made, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least a couple of hours, allowing it to firm up, which will make it easier to roll out later.
Step 2: Create the Mushroom Filling
While the pastry dough is chilling, it’s time to prepare the flavorful mushroom filling. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat a splash of sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it gently until it becomes golden brown and slightly caramelized. This process will deepen the flavor and sweetness of the onions, which will enhance the overall taste of your pies.
Once the onions are caramelized, stir in the grated garlic and chopped button mushrooms. Increase the heat to high and cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture. Allow this moisture to evaporate completely to achieve a thick filling.
After the mushrooms are cooked through, season the mixture with black pepper, fresh basil, and pour in the fresh cream. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring you have a thick, creamy mushroom filling. If the mixture appears too watery, you can sprinkle in a teaspoon of cornflour to help thicken it up. Once combined, remove the filling from heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Mini Pies
Now that your pastry dough has chilled and your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the mini pies. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and prepare your muffin molds or pie tart pans by greasing them with butter.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough into a large rectangle. Using a cookie cutter, cut out circles measuring about 10 cm in diameter, ensuring they will fit snugly into your molds.
Take each circle and gently press it into the bottom and up the sides of the greased molds, trimming any excess dough. If the dough is larger than the cavity, simply pinch the edges to fit snugly.
Next, spoon the cooled mushroom filling into each pastry-lined mold, filling them generously but not overflowing.
Step 4: Top the Mini Pies
For the tops of the pies, you will need additional pastry. Roll out any remaining dough, and use your cookie cutter to cut out circles that match the size of the filling. Carefully place these circles over the filled molds, pinching the edges of the top and bottom layers together to seal the pies completely.
To ensure steam escapes during baking, make a few small slits in the top of each pie with a knife.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Baking
In a small bowl, beat an egg (or use milk for an eggless version) and brush it over the edges of the pastry and the tops. This egg wash will give your pies a beautiful golden color as they bake. Sprinkle a few sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
Place the assembled mini pies in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 28 to 30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
Once baked, remove the mini pies from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the filling to set slightly, making them easier to handle.
Serving Suggestions
These Creamy Mushroom Mini Pies are best served warm, perhaps alongside a comforting bowl of Lemongrass Soup or with some Garlic Bread. For a special touch, consider pairing them with a glass of your favorite wine, creating a delightful experience perfect for entertaining friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home.
Conclusion
With their flaky crust and creamy, savory filling, these Creamy Mushroom Mini Pies are not just a dish but an experience to savor. They bring together simple ingredients in a way that elevates your dining experience, making it an elegant choice for any occasion. Enjoy making these delightful snacks, and share the joy of cooking with those you love!
