Homemade Savory Meat Pastries

### Instructions for Making Homemade Savory Meat Pastries

#### Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough
Start by preparing the **pastry dough**. In a large bowl, combine the **flour**, **salt**, and **sugar**. Add the **cold cubed butter** to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. You can also use your fingers, but be careful not to melt the butter with the warmth of your hands.

Next, slowly add **ice water** one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Once the dough starts to come together, use your hands to shape it into a ball. If needed, add a bit more water, but be careful not to overwork the dough.

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the dough to rest, making it easier to roll out and ensuring that the pastry will be nice and flaky when baked.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Meat Filling
While the dough is chilling, prepare the **meat filling**. In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the **chopped onion** and **garlic** and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Add the **ground beef** (and pork, if using) to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the meat is browned and cooked through, season with **dried thyme**, **paprika**, **salt**, **pepper**, and **ground cumin** (if using). Stir well to combine.

Pour in the **beef broth** and **Worcestershire sauce**. Stir in the **breadcrumbs** and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes cohesive. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the filling aside to cool. This step ensures that the filling stays moist but isn’t too runny when placed inside the pastry.

#### Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)** and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the dough into squares or circles, depending on your preferred shape for the pastries.

#### Step 4: Assemble the Pastries
Place a spoonful of the cooled **meat filling** in the center of each dough square or circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make it harder to seal the pastries. Fold the dough over the filling to form a pocket or a triangle, and use a fork to crimp the edges and seal them securely.

For an extra golden finish, beat the **egg** and brush the egg wash over the tops of the pastries. This will give the pastries a beautiful, shiny appearance once baked.

#### Step 5: Bake the Pastries
Place the prepared pastries on the lined baking sheet, making sure they are spaced evenly. Bake them in the preheated oven for **20-25 minutes**, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. The meat filling should be hot and cooked through.

#### Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the pastries are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with some fresh **chopped parsley** for a pop of color and flavor.

Serve the savory meat pastries warm, and enjoy them with a side of dipping sauce like ketchup, mustard, or a tangy dipping sauce of your choice. They’re perfect for snacking, pairing with soups, or serving as an appetizer at your next party or gathering.

### Why You’ll Love Homemade Savory Meat Pastries

1. **Flaky, Buttery Pastry**: The combination of cold butter and ice water in the dough creates a beautifully flaky pastry. Each bite offers the perfect balance of crispness and tenderness, elevating the rich, savory filling.

2. **Customizable Filling**: Whether you’re using ground beef, lamb, turkey, or a combination of meats, the filling can be customized to your taste. You can even add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

3. **Perfect for Any Occasion**: These meat pastries are incredibly versatile and can be served at a wide range of events. They make great appetizers, party snacks, lunchboxes, or even as a hearty side dish for dinner.

4. **Make Ahead and Freeze**: You can make the pastries ahead of time and freeze them for later use. Simply prepare them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, store them in a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

5. **Satisfying and Hearty**: Filled with flavorful, seasoned meat, these pastries are hearty and filling. Whether served as a snack or part of a meal, they are sure to satisfy your hunger and keep you coming back for more.

### Final Thoughts: A Comforting Delight

**Homemade Savory Meat Pastries** are a delicious and comforting treat that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With a rich, savory filling wrapped in a buttery, flaky pastry, these pastries are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy snack, a party appetizer, or a tasty addition to a meal, these pastries hit the spot.

Once you master the art of making these homemade savory meat pastries, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy them. From experimenting with different meats and spices to adding your own unique twist, this recipe offers endless possibilities for creating the perfect pastry for you and your loved ones to enjoy!