Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 Alheira sausages
- 1 cup of grated cheese
- 2 sheets of puff pastry
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Baking tray
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Remove the casing from the Alheira sausages and crumble the meat into a bowl.
3. Add the grated cheese to the bowl and mix well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface.
6. Cut the pastry into circles using a cookie cutter or a glass.
7. Place a spoonful of the Alheira and cheese mixture onto each pastry circle.
8. Fold the pastry over to create a half-moon shape.
9. Use a fork to press the edges together and seal the pies.
10. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the tops of the pies with the egg wash.
11. Place the pies on a baking tray and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
200°C (400°F)
Serving size:
Makes 12 pies
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 180
Total fat: 12g
Saturated fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total carbohydrates: 12g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Alheira sausages can be substituted with chorizo or any other spicy sausage.
- Any type of grated cheese can be used, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan.
Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as onions, peppers, or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor.
- Use different types of pastry, such as shortcrust or filo.
- Add herbs or spices to the filling, such as paprika or oregano.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the Alheira sausage is crumbled finely to ensure even distribution in the pies.
- Don't overfill the pies, as this can cause them to burst open during baking.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the pastry circles for a clean edge.
Storage instructions:
- Store the pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the pies, place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pies on a platter with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Garnish the pies with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve the pies with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed green salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Roasted sweet potatoes with rosemary
- Grilled asparagus with lemon and garlic
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pies are not browning evenly, rotate the baking tray halfway through baking.
- If the pies are leaking filling, make sure the edges are pressed together firmly before baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the Alheira sausage is cooked through before using in the recipe.
- Store the pies in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food history:
- Alheira sausage is a traditional Portuguese sausage made with bread, poultry, and spices. It was originally created by Portuguese Jews who were forced to convert to Christianity during the Inquisition and had to hide their dietary restrictions.
Flavor profiles:
- The Alheira and cheese filling is savory and spicy, while the puff pastry adds a buttery and flaky texture.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the Alheira and Cheese Pies as an appetizer or a main course with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
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Region: Portuguese