Argentinian Pumpkin, Cheese and Spiced Honey Hand Pies

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 220°F and 105°C for 5 minutes just to make it slightly warm, then turn it off. In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with 3 g of salt. Add the cold butter cubes and rub them in with your fingers until the mixture looks sandy with visible bits of butter.

2. 2

   Gradually add the cold water until a dough forms that is cohesive but not sticky. Knead very briefly for 1 minute, shape into a rectangle, cover, and let it rest for 20 minutes in the turned-off slightly warm oven, around 220°F and 105°C at the beginning of resting.

3. 3

   While the dough rests, raise the oven temperature to 425°F and 220°C. Place the pumpkin on a tray and toss with 15 ml olive oil, 1 g salt, sweet paprika, and ground cumin. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes at 425°F and 220°C until tender and lightly browned.

4. 4

   In a skillet over medium heat, cook the onion with the remaining 15 ml olive oil and 2 g salt for 10 minutes, stirring, until golden and sweet. Add half of the ground chili flakes and cook 30 seconds more. Remove from the heat.

5. 5

   Mash the roasted pumpkin in a bowl until you have a rustic purée. Mix with the golden onion and let cool for 10 minutes. When warm rather than hot, fold in the creamy soft cheese cubes so they keep some texture.

6. 6

   Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 3 mm thick. Cut 16 equal squares or rounds. Place a portion of the pumpkin and cheese filling on 8 pieces, leaving a border around the edges.

7. 7

   Brush the edges with the beaten egg, cover with the remaining 8 pieces, and press firmly to seal. Crimp decoratively or press with a fork. Brush the tops with more beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

8. 8

   Bake the hand pies for 18 to 20 minutes at 400°F and 205°C until puffed and golden.

9. 9

   While they bake, combine the honey with the apple cider vinegar and the remaining ground chili flakes. Warm for 20 to 30 seconds in a small saucepan over very low heat, without boiling, just until fluid.

10. 10

    Let the hand pies rest for 5 minutes after removing them from the oven. Serve warm with a drizzle of spiced honey on top or on the side for dipping.