Alabama Hot Pockets Today!
Spicy Alabama-style hand pies are a delicious twist on the traditional Southern classic. But what makes them so special? Only one way to find out!Table of Contents
Spicy Alabama Hot Pockets: A Delicious Historical Recipe from the Heart of Dixie
From the fertile farmlands of Alabama comes a scrumptious recipe that is sure to tickle the taste buds of any self-respecting foodie. Spicy Alabama Hand Pies are a popular Southern delicacy that bring together the best of savory flavors with a hint of tangy spice in every bite. These tasty and versatile hand pies are perfect for serving up as a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or as an appetizer at a party.
The origins of Spicy Alabama Hand Pies can be traced back to the legendary potlucks of Dixie. The combination of hearty beef, aromatic onions, zesty jalapeños, and rich cheddar cheese was a staple in Southern kitchens for centuries. It wasn't until the advent of packaged pie crusts that this classic recipe was transformed into the portable and perfectly sized hand pies we love today.
What sets Spicy Alabama Hand Pies apart from other savory pies is the contrasting textures and bold flavors. The tender and flaky crust is filled with a savory blend of ground beef, melted cheese, and spicy jalapeños that is perfectly balanced with a generous serving of mayonnaise and a blend of aromatic spices. The result is a mouthwatering pie that is both satisfying and delicious.
One of the most alluring aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Make them larger or smaller depending on your needs or experiment with different fillings to create a unique taste. The possibilities are endless.
If you're looking to impress your friends, family, or co-workers with a delightful dish that is sure to please, then Spicy Alabama Hand Pies are just what you need. Perfect for a game day snack, picnic lunch, or even as a topping for a salad. The sky's the limit with what you can do with this delicious recipe.
So, why wait? Try Spicy Alabama Hand Pies today and discover just how amazing a hand pie can be!
Ask the Chef: Pro Tips for making Spicy Alabama Hot Pockets
Experiment with Heat
Adjust the spiciness to your taste by adding or subtracting pickled jalapeños and cayenne pepper in small increments. Be sure to taste the beef mixture as you go, keeping in mind that the heat will be evened out a bit once it's baked in the pie crust.Use Quality Ingredients
Since this dish is all about the beef filling, be sure to use quality ground beef. Look for something with a higher fat content, like 80/20, to ensure a juicy and flavorful filling.Keep it Tight
To prevent the hand pies from bursting open during baking, be sure to seal the edges tightly with a fork, removing any air pockets. Consider brushing a tiny amount of water around the edges of the dough before folding the pies over for a better seal.Consider Variations
Add more vegetables or swap out the cheese according to your preference. Experiment with different types of fillings, such as chicken, turkey, or vegetarian options for an interesting twist on this classic recipe.Store Leftovers Properly
Allow the hand pies to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before storing them in the fridge. When reheating, pop them in a preheated toaster oven or in a pan over low heat to prevent the crusts from becoming soggy.How Many Calories are in Spicy Alabama Hot Pockets?
Nutrition Facts
8 Servings per RecipeCalories: 590
- Total Fat: 47g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 27g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 910mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 21g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Total Sugars: 1g
- Added Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 24g
What Drinks Pair Best with Alabama Hot Pockets?
Wine pairing: A full-bodied and bold Zinfandel would pair well with the spicy Alabama-style hand pies. The wine's fruity and spicy notes will complement the jalapenos and paprika in the dish while its tannins can cut through the richness of the beef and cheese. Beer pairing: A beer pairing that would work well with the Spicy Alabama-style Hand Pies is an American Pale Ale. The citrusy and hoppy flavors of an APA complement the spiciness of the dish while also cutting through the richness of the beef and cheese. Cocktail pairing: A good cocktail pairing for the Spicy Alabama-style Hand Pies would be a classic Bloody Mary. The spiciness of the pickled jalapenos and cayenne pepper in the hand pies would be complemented well by the heat and flavors of the Bloody Mary.How to Make Spicy Alabama Hot Pockets
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup Onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Pickled Jalapeños, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 2 Ready-made Pie Crusts
- 1 Egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Add the onion and garlic halfway through cooking and cook until softened.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet and turn off heat.
- Mix in mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, pickled jalapenos, paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Roll out the pie crusts on a floured surface and cut out circles about 4-inches in diameter.
- Spoon the beef mixture onto one half of each circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
- Fold the other half of each circle over to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press the edges together and seal the pies.
- Place the pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the beaten egg over the top of each hand pie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the hand pies are golden brown and piping hot.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
