Cheesy Caramelized Onion Hand Pies

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 45 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2/5 (moderately easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Brown the pork cubes on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion to the skillet and sauté until caramelized, about 15 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until thickened.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Add the pork cubes back to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a 12x12 inch square. Cut out 8 circles with a 4-inch cookie cutter.
9. Place a spoonful of the pork filling in the center of each circle. Fold the edges over the filling and press to seal.
10. Brush the tops of the pies with the beaten egg.
11. Transfer the pies to a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Nutritional Information:

• Serving Size: 1 pie
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

Dish Characteristics:

• Savory
• Flaky
• Creamy
• Perfect for a main course or appetizer

User Comments:

• "These hand pies were absolutely delicious! The caramelized onions added a sweet and savory flavor that perfectly complemented the pork filling."
• "The puff pastry was so flaky and golden brown. I loved the contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, creamy interior."
• "These pies were so easy to make, even for a beginner like me. They're a great way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use a sharp knife to cut the pork into even cubes for even cooking.
• Be careful not to overcook the pork, as it will become tough.
• If you don't have puff pastry, you can use phyllo dough instead.
• Serve the pies with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, mustard, or barbecue sauce.