Farmers Cheese Herb Hand Pies with Everything Bagel Crust
- Farmers Cheese & Herb Hand Pies: Your New Obsession
- The Kit and Caboodle: Ingredients & Equipment
- Farmers Cheese & Herb Hand Pies: Your Next Bake Off Challenge
- Step-by-Step Process: Hand Pie Magic
- Pro Tips: Elevate Your Farmers Cheese Hand Pie Recipe
- Serving up Deliciousness
- Keeping it Fresh: Storage Savvy
- Tweak it 'Til You Make It: Recipe Variations
- Nutrition Nuggets: Knowledge is Power
- Frequently Asked Questions
Farmers Cheese Herb Hand Pies With Everything Ba
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 420 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Farmers Cheese & Herb Hand Pies: Your New Obsession
Fancy a bit of Great British Bake Off without all the pressure? Ever wondered what to make with farmers cheese ? Well, let me tell you, these Farmers Cheese Hand Pie Recipe are about to become your new best friend.
They're savoury, delicious, and ever so slightly posh – think Cornish pasty, but way more exciting.
A Savoury Slice of Polish History
Honestly, the idea for this recipe came to me after rummaging through my grandma's old recipe book. These Polish Farmers Cheese Recipes have a real legacy.
These aren't just any cheese recipes homemade. They’re proper comfort food. They are incredibly versatile and surprisingly easy once you get the hang of the pastry.
It might seem intimidating, but trust me, you've got this! This recipe makes about six hand pies, perfect for sharing.
.. or not!
Why You Need These Hand Pies in Your Life
The main perk? The filling is bursting with flavor and goodness. Farmers cheese, is naturally a great source of protein and calcium.
These savoury farmers cheese recipes are perfect for a light lunch or a sophisticated snack, plus you can use it as Farmers Cheese Appetizers .
The Farmers Cheese Filling Ideas are endless. What really makes them special is the everything bagel crust. The combination of creamy, tangy cheese and that distinctive savoury crust is just heavenly.
I mean, who doesn't love an everything bagel?
Ready to get baking? Let's dive into the ingredients you'll need.
Right then, let's chat about what you'll need for these blooming marvelous farmers cheese recipes ! I am so eager to show you what to make with farmers cheese
The Kit and Caboodle: Ingredients & Equipment
So, before we get our aprons on, let's make sure we've got everything. Nothing worse than being halfway through a bake and realising you're short on something. Trust me, I’ve been there!
Main Ingredients for Farmers Cheese Hand Pies
Here’s the breakdown for our scrummy hand pies. I've given you both US and metric 'cause I'm thoughtful like that!
Pastry Dough:
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/2 cups ( 300g ), plus extra for dusting. (Go for a decent brand, makes all the difference)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon ( 6g ). (Just regular table salt is grand)
- Cold unsalted butter: 1 cup ( 227g ), cubed. ( Crucially cold, or your pastry will be a nightmare).
- Ice water: 1/2 cup ( 120ml ). (Keeps the butter happy).
- Egg: 1 large , beaten. (For that lovely golden glaze).
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: 2 tablespoons . (Can't be doing with a plain crust, now can we?). You may want to try cheese recipes homemade .
Farmers Cheese Filling Ideas:
- Farmers cheese : 1 pound ( 450g ), drained. ( Important : Get good quality stuff. It is the star, after all).
- Sour cream: 1/4 cup ( 60ml ). (Full-fat is best, naturally).
- Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup , chopped. (Packed measure. Get some curly parsley as a great herby addition for these savoury farmers cheese recipes ).
- Fresh chives: 2 tablespoons , chopped. (Adds a lovely oniony zing).
- Fresh dill: 1 tablespoon , chopped. (A must for that proper herby flavour).
- Egg yolk: 1 large . (Richness, darling, richness!).
- Garlic powder: 1/4 teaspoon ( 1.5g ). (Don't overdo it).
- Onion powder: 1/4 teaspoon ( 1.5g ). (Subtle, but essential).
- Salt and pepper: To taste. (Don't be shy, season it well!). If you fancy something different, have you tried Polish farmers cheese recipes ?
Seasoning Notes: Get That Flavour Bang On
Right, so, the herbs are essential, but don't be scared to experiment. A pinch of dried thyme is gorgeous! If you want a bit of heat, a tiny dash of chilli flakes won't go amiss.
Swap garlic and onion granules for roasted garlic for a mellow flavour. I have made this farmers cheese hand pie recipe so many times!
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
Now, for the tools of the trade:
- Food processor. (Optional, but makes the pastry so much easier).
- Rolling pin. (A must for rolling out your pastry).
- Parchment paper. (Stops your pies from sticking).
- Baking sheet. (Obvious, really).
- Pastry brush. (For that perfect egg wash).
If you don't have a food processor, don't fret. Just rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs.
It'll take a bit longer, but it works a treat. Sorted.
Farmers Cheese & Herb Hand Pies: Your Next Bake Off Challenge
Alright, let's get cracking with some proper comfort food. These farmers cheese and herb hand pies are a game-changer. They're like the cheese recipes homemade your nan used to make.
Except, we're adding a bit of pizzazz, like Mary Berry would. Think savoury and satisfying, the perfect dish for a lunch!
Prep Steps: Mise en Place Like a Pro
First things first. Let's get organised. This is the essential mise en place . Chop your herbs: parsley, chives, and dill.
Measure out your flour, salt, butter and water. Trust me, it makes life easier. Also, drain that farmers cheese . No one wants a soggy hand pie.
Step-by-Step Process: Hand Pie Magic
Alright, the moment we have all been waiting for. Ready to get cooking?
- Make the Dough: Blitz 2 1/2 cups flour and 1 tsp salt in a food processor. Add 1 cup cold, cubed butter. Pulse until crumbly. Gradually add 1/2 cup ice water until it just comes together.
- Chill: Flatten dough into a disc, wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour . Honestly , don't skip this.
- Filling Prep: Mix 1 pound drained farmers cheese, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup each chopped parsley, chives, dill, 1 egg yolk, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Pies: Roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut 4-5 inch circles.
- Fill and Seal: Spoon filling onto each circle. Fold over, crimp edges with a fork. No leaks allowed!
- Egg Wash & Season: Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
- Bake: Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 25- 30 minutes , until golden brown.
Pro Tips: Elevate Your Farmers Cheese Hand Pie Recipe
- Cold is Key : Keeping your ingredients cold is non-negotiable for that flaky crust.
- Everything Bagel Boost : Don't skip the Everything Bagel seasoning. It adds a salty, savory kick.
- Make-Ahead Magic : These babies can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving. Perfect for stress-free entertaining. Or you could just make farmers cheese appetizers .
So, there you have it. A foolproof guide to farmers cheese recipes that will have everyone asking for more. And don't forget to ask What To Make With Farmers Cheese .
Give these a go, and let me know how you get on. Happy baking!
Alright, let's talk shop about these yummy hand pies! After all, farmers cheese recipes like this are all about flexibility. Here are some notes to help you along your baking journey.
Serving up Deliciousness
Plating & Presentation: Look at That Hand Pie!
Honestly, even a slightly wonky hand pie looks amazing. I love a rustic look, but if you're feeling fancy, a sprinkle of extra Everything Bagel Pastry seasoning goes a long way.
Serve these warm on a nice wooden board. Or, arrange them artfully on a plate with a sprig of parsley.
Sides & Sips: Make it a Meal
These savoury farmers cheese recipes go brilliantly with a simple green salad. I'm talking, rocket, a light vinaigrette, and you're golden.
For drinks, a crisp cider or a light white wine? Oh my gosh, perfect. They're equally good with a cuppa, though.
Keeping it Fresh: Storage Savvy
Refrigeration Rules: Chilling Out
These hand pies will happily sit in the fridge for up to three days. Just pop them in an airtight container once they've cooled down.
Cold hand pies are surprisingly delightful. I once ate one straight from the fridge for breakfast. No regrets!
Freezing Facts: Freeze for Future You
You can freeze these! Wrap each pie individually in cling film, then pop them into a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to two months.
Reheating Realness: Back to Life
To reheat, just bung them in a preheated oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 10- 15 minutes.
Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave works if you're impatient. But the oven gives them the best texture.
Tweak it 'Til You Make It: Recipe Variations
Dietary Do-Overs: For Everyone!
Want gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend one with a good mix of starches. Need dairy-free? Experiment with dairy-free farmers cheese filling ideas .
It might change the flavour slightly, but it's worth a go.
Seasonal Swaps: Mix it Up
In the summer, try adding some chopped fresh tomatoes to the filling. In autumn, a little bit of roasted butternut squash would be lovely.
Get creative! And maybe try polish farmers cheese recipes
Nutrition Nuggets: Knowledge is Power
Simple Stats: Good to Know
Each hand pie clocks in around 420 calories. They have a good dose of protein from the farmers cheese and a decent amount of fat from the pastry.
Health Highlights: Bonus Points
Farmers cheese is a good source of calcium and protein. Plus, you're getting some fibre from the flour and herbs.
Not bad for a cheese recipes homemade treat, eh? These farmers cheese appetizers are really great at a party.
So there you have it! A few extra notes to guide you on your farmers cheese hand pie recipe adventure.
Don't be afraid to experiment. And most importantly, have fun! And remember, now you know what to make with farmers cheese
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is farmers cheese, anyway? Is it like that cottage cheese my Nan used to make?
Farmers cheese is a fresh cheese with a mild, slightly tangy flavor and a crumbly texture. It's lower in fat and sodium than many other cheeses, making it a healthier choice. While both are fresh cheeses, farmers cheese is pressed to remove more whey than cottage cheese, resulting in a drier, denser consistency.
Think of it as the cheese you'd choose if you were trying to be a bit healthier, but still wanted something tasty for your tea!
Can I use a different cheese instead of farmers cheese in these hand pies? I've got some ricotta kicking about in the fridge.
While farmers cheese provides a distinct tangy flavor and drier texture that works well in these hand pies, ricotta can be used as a substitute. However, ricotta is much wetter, so be sure to drain it very well before using it in the filling.
You might also need to add a tablespoon or two of flour to the filling to absorb any excess moisture, preventing a soggy bottom – a common "Bake Off" pitfall!
Help! My hand pie dough is cracking when I try to roll it out. What am I doing wrong?
Cracking dough is a common issue when making pastry, especially in drier environments. The dough is likely too dry or hasn't been chilled for long enough. Make sure you’re using ice-cold water when making the dough and allow it to chill for at least an hour – even longer in a warm kitchen!
If the dough is still cracking, you can try adding a teaspoon of ice water at a time, kneading briefly, until it becomes more pliable. Remember, patience is key – channel your inner Prue Leith!
What are some other farmers cheese recipes I can make with this cheese if I have any left over?
Farmers cheese is incredibly versatile! Besides these savory hand pies, you can use it in sweet or savory dishes. It's lovely in pierogi fillings, cheese blintzes, or even crumbled over a salad. You can also use it as a filling for sweet pastries or tarts, similar to a cheesecake.
Don't be afraid to experiment - think of it as a blank canvas for your culinary creations!
How long will these farmers cheese hand pies last, and what's the best way to store them?
These hand pies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven (350°F / 175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
You can also freeze them for longer storage – wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be reheated directly from frozen, but may require a longer baking time.
Are these farmers cheese hand pies healthy? I'm trying to cut back on calories, but these look so tempting!
These hand pies offer a decent source of protein from the farmers cheese, and the fresh herbs add some beneficial nutrients. However, like most pastries, they are relatively high in calories and fat, primarily from the butter in the crust. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
You could also consider using whole wheat flour in the crust or reducing the amount of butter slightly to make them a bit healthier – every little helps!
