Prawn pies are a delightful savory treat that combines the succulent flavors of prawns with a flaky, buttery pastry. These pies make for a perfect appetizer or a main course dish that is sure to impress your guests. The combination of ginger, garlic, and sweet chili sauce adds a burst of flavor to the juicy prawns, while the double cream gives a rich and creamy texture to the filling. With a golden and crispy pastry shell, these prawn pies are both visually appealing and incredibly tasty.
INGREDIENTS:
- 225g/8oz plain flour, plus extra for dusting
- 100g/4oz butter, cubed, plus extra for greasing
- 1 tablespoon dried vegetable oil
- 5cm/2in piece of fresh root ginger, grated
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 900g/2lb raw prawns, peeled and deveined
- 75ml/3fl oz sweet chilli sauce
- 75ml/3fl oz lime juice
- 75ml/3fl oz double cream
- 25g/1oz fresh coriander, chopped
- 1 egg yolk, lightly beaten
PREPARATIONS:
- Sift the flour into a large bowl, add the butter, and rub into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Make a well in the center, add 3 tablespoons of water, and mix with a flat-bladed knife until the mixture comes together in beads.
- Gather the dough together and lift it out onto a lightly floured surface. Press into a ball and flatten into a disc. Wrap in cling film and chill for 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas mark 6. Grease two baking trays with butter.
- Heat the oil in a large frying pan, and sauté the ginger, garlic, and prawns for 3 minutes. Remove the prawns and set aside.
- Add the chili sauce, lime juice, and cream to the pan, and simmer over a medium heat until the sauce has reduced by a third.
- Return the prawns to the pan and add the coriander. Stir through, then leave to cool.
- Divide the pastry into four portions and roll out each portion, between sheets of baking parchment, into a 20cm/8in circle.
- Divide the filling into four portions and place a portion in the center of each pastry, leaving a wide border.
- Fold the edges loosely over the filling and slide the pies onto the prepared baking trays.
- Brush the pastry with the egg yolk. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden. Serve hot.
YIELD:
- Serves 4.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out to ensure a flaky and tender crust.
- Use a flat-bladed knife to mix the dough to prevent overmixing, which can result in a tougher texture.
- Rolling out the pastry between sheets of baking parchment makes it easier to handle and prevents sticking.
- Leave a wide border when placing the filling on the pastry to allow for folding and sealing.
- Brushing the pastry with beaten egg yolk before baking gives it a glossy finish and helps with browning.
TIPS:
- Serve the prawn pies hot as an appetizer or pair them with a fresh salad for a satisfying main course.
- You can customize the filling by adding additional spices or vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
- Ensure the prawns are peeled and deveined before using them in the recipe for the best texture and taste.
- Experiment with different types of herbs or sauces to create variations of these delicious prawn pies.
- Store any leftover pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
In conclusion, these prawn pies are a delightful combination of flaky pastry and succulent prawns, enhanced by the flavors of ginger, garlic, and sweet chili sauce. The creamy filling with a hint of lime juice and fresh coriander adds a luxurious touch to this dish. The golden and crispy crust provides a satisfying contrast to the juicy prawns. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these prawn pies are sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests.
To prepare these pies, start by making the buttery pastry dough and chilling it for a short time. Meanwhile, sauté the prawns with ginger and garlic, then simmer them in a sauce made from sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and double cream. Once the filling is ready, divide the dough into portions, roll it out, and place the filling in the center of each pastry circle. Fold the edges over the filling, brush the pastry with beaten egg yolk, and bake until golden and delicious.
When serving these prawn pies, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. The pies can also be enjoyed on their own as a delightful appetizer during a gathering or special occasion.
Remember to handle the pastry with care and ensure the prawns are properly peeled and deveined for the best results. You can also customize the filling by adding your favorite spices or vegetables to create a unique flavor profile.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, these prawn pies are a fantastic recipe to try. Their combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving for more. So, gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and enjoy these delicious prawn pies with your loved ones.
