As the crisp November air fills with the scent of bonfires and the sky lights up with dazzling fireworks, there’s no better way to warm your hands and satisfy your appetite than with a delectable hand pie. Renowned chef Yotam Ottolenghi has crafted two irresistible recipes that are sure to be the talk of your Bonfire Night gathering: a savory spinach and mozzarella pie spiced with curry, and a sweet sour cherry and sumac delight.
Savory Spinach and Mozzarella Hand Pies with a Curry Twist
Ottolenghi’s mozzarella, spinach, and curry-spiced hand pies are a flavor-packed twist on a classic combination. The flaky, buttery pastry encases a luscious filling of caramelized onions, wilted spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella, all elevated by the warm, aromatic notes of curry powder and a hint of chili flakes.
One of the best things about these savory hand pies is that they can be prepared ahead of time. As Ottolenghi suggests, you can assemble the pies a day in advance and refrigerate them, or even freeze them for up to a week. When you’re ready to serve, simply brush them with egg yolk, sprinkle on some nigella seeds, and bake until golden brown and piping hot.
These are November’s answer to the party canapé, passed around and eaten by hand, and passing on their heat. Hosts can also delight in the fact that any crumbs will fall outside the house and that, if need be, said pies can be made in advance and frozen.
– Yotam Ottolenghi
Sweet and Tangy Sour Cherry and Sumac Hand Pies
For those with a sweet tooth, Ottolenghi’s sour cherry and sumac hand pies are a tantalizing treat. These pastries pay homage to the beloved pop tart, but with a sophisticated twist. The filling is a luscious combination of cherry jam and frozen cherries, encased in a crisp, buttery puff pastry shell.
The key to preventing the jam from escaping during baking is to freeze the assembled pies before popping them into the oven. Once baked, the hand pies are drizzled with a cherry and sumac-infused icing, adding an extra layer of tartness and visual appeal. The sumac provides a subtle, citrusy note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cherries.
Ideally, use a jam with lots of pieces of fruit in it, and play around with whichever jams and frozen fruit you have to hand.
– Yotam Ottolenghi
Hand Pies: The Perfect Portable Party Food
Whether you opt for the savory spinach and mozzarella or the sweet sour cherry and sumac variety, these hand pies are sure to be a hit at your Bonfire Night celebration. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also incredibly convenient for outdoor gatherings. As Ottolenghi points out, these portable pastries are meant to be passed around and eaten by hand, making them the ideal fireside snack.
So, as you prepare for your Bonfire Night festivities, consider adding Yotam Ottolenghi’s hand pie recipes to your menu. With their irresistible flavors, make-ahead convenience, and portable nature, these pastries are sure to become a new autumn tradition. Light the bonfire, gather your loved ones, and savor the warmth and comfort of these delightful hand pies under the stars.
