Tampa Cuban Hand Pies

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Who doesn't love a good hand pie? The flaky crust, the savory filling, the convenience of a handheld meal - it's the perfect combination of comfort and portability.

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Tampa Cuban Hand Pies
Prep
15 min
Cook
25 min
Total
45 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

  2. Take the dough out of the can and roll it out into a rectangle measuring 9x16 inches. Cut the rectangle into 4 equal pieces.

  3. Place one piece of dough horizontally on a work surface. Brush mustard onto the surface, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Arrange ham, pork, salami, Swiss cheese, and 2 pickle chips on the left side of the dough, in that order, while keeping the border and right side exposed.

  4. Whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush the wash around the border. Fold the right side of the dough over the filling and press to seal, crimping the edges with a fork. Make a few small slits on the top of the hand pie to allow steam to escape. Brush some of the egg wash over the top.

  5. Repeat the process with the remaining dough, mustard, filling, and egg wash. Arrange the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet.

  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the pies are crisp and golden brown. If they start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil. Once done, transfer the pies to a cooling rack and let them cool for 5 minutes.

  7. If possible, use mojo-marinated pork for the filling

About this recipe

Tampa Cuban Hand Pies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Who doesn't love a good hand pie? The flaky crust, the savory filling, the convenience of a handheld meal - it's the perfect combination of comfort and portability. But have you ever had a Tampa Cuban hand pie? This delightful twist on a classic takes the traditional flavors of a Cuban sandwich and encases them in a golden, buttery pastry. It's like a taste of Tampa in every bite!

The Flavors of Tampa

Tampa, Florida is known for its vibrant food scene, and the Cuban sandwich is one of its most iconic dishes. Piled high with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, it's a symphony of flavors that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of locals and visitors alike. So it's no surprise that someone decided to take those delicious flavors and turn them into a portable hand pie.

A Perfectly Flaky Crust

The key to a great hand pie is the crust. It needs to be light, flaky, and buttery, with just the right amount of crispness. And that's exactly what you'll find in a Tampa Cuban hand pie. The crust is made with a combination of butter and lard, which gives it a rich, tender texture. It's then rolled out and filled with all the classic Cuban sandwich ingredients.

A Savory Filling

Inside the flaky crust, you'll find a mouthwatering combination of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a filling that is both savory and satisfying. Each bite is a harmonious blend of meaty, cheesy, tangy goodness.

Where to Find Tampa Cuban Hand Pies

If you find yourself in Tampa and craving a taste of these delectable hand pies, you're in luck. There are several bakeries and food trucks in the area that specialize in this unique twist on a classic. Just follow your nose and let the aroma of freshly baked pies guide you to your next culinary adventure.

How to Make Your Own

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try making Tampa Cuban hand pies at home. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can recreate the flavors of Tampa in your own kitchen. Start by making the flaky crust from scratch, then fill it with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. Bake until golden and enjoy the taste of Tampa wherever you are.

The Perfect On-The-Go Meal

Tampa Cuban hand pies are the perfect on-the-go meal. Whether you're heading to work, going on a picnic, or simply need a quick bite to eat, these handheld treats are a delicious and convenient option. They're easy to eat with one hand, so you can enjoy your meal without missing a beat.

Frequently asked questions

. Where can I find Tampa Cuban hand pies in Tampa?

There are several bakeries and food trucks in Tampa that specialize in Tampa Cuban hand pies. Just do a quick search online or ask a local for their recommendations.

. Can I make Tampa Cuban hand pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Tampa Cuban hand pies ahead of time. Simply bake them according to the recipe, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, just reheat them in the oven or microwave.

. Can I freeze Tampa Cuban hand pies?

Yes, you can freeze Tampa Cuban hand pies. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake them in the oven until heated through.

. Are Tampa Cuban hand pies spicy?

Tampa Cuban hand pies are not typically spicy. The filling consists of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, which provide a savory and tangy flavor, but not heat. However, you can always add some hot sauce or peppers if you prefer a spicier kick.

. Can I customize the filling of Tampa Cuban hand pies?

Yes, you can customize the filling of Tampa Cuban hand pies to suit your preferences. While the traditional filling includes roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, you can experiment with different meats, cheeses, and condiments to create your own unique flavor combination.

. Are Tampa Cuban hand pies suitable for vegetarians?

Tampa Cuban hand pies are typically not suitable for vegetarians, as they contain roasted pork and ham. However, you can easily adapt the recipe to make a vegetarian version by using plant-based meats and omitting the pork and ham.

. Can I make mini Tampa Cuban hand pies?

Yes, you can make mini Tampa Cuban hand pies by using a smaller cutter to cut out the pastry rounds and reducing the amount of filling in each pie. This is a great option for parties or as appetizers.

. Can I serve Tampa Cuban hand pies with a dipping sauce?

Absolutely! Tampa Cuban hand pies can be served with a variety of dipping sauces to add an extra layer of flavor. Some popular options include spicy mustard, aioli, or a tangy barbecue sauce.

In conclusion, Tampa Cuban hand pies are a delightful twist on a classic. With their flaky crust, savory filling, and portable nature, they're the perfect on-the-go meal. Whether you're in Tampa or trying your hand at making them at home, these hand pies are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So go ahead, take a bite, and experience the flavors of Tampa in every delicious bite!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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