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Ghanaian Meat Pies: Air Fryer African Hot Pockets

Ghanaian meat pies are the same as hot pockets.

Think of Ghanaian meat pies as the African cousin of the classic American hot pocket. Both handheld pastries filled with savory ingredients offer a convenient and flavorful meal. While the specific fillings may differ (think spicy ground beef, vegetables, and sometimes even plantains in Ghanaian pies), the core concept remains the same: a delicious, portable treat that's perfect for a quick bite.

Ghanaian meat pies

Ghanaian Meat Pies: The African Hot Pocket Recipe (Air Fryer)

Discover the delicious world of Ghanaian Meat Pies! This easy air fryer recipe recreates the classic handheld treat with a flavorful blend of spices and savory fillings. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 10-12 minutes


Ingredients:

8 sheets puff pastry, thawed

1 cup cooked ground beef or chicken

1/2 cup chopped onions

1/4 cup chopped bell peppers

1/4 cup chopped tomatoes

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ginger, grated

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 egg, beaten

Vegetable oil spray


Directions:

Prepare the Filling:

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.

Add ground beef/chicken and cook until browned. Stir in tomatoes, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

Cook for a few more minutes until the flavors combine. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Assemble the Hot Pockets:

Cut each puff pastry sheet in half. Place 1/4 cup of the filling mixture in the center of each pastry square. Top with a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square. Press the edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.

Air Fry:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the hot pockets with vegetable oil spray. Place the hot pockets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don't overlap. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip the hot pockets halfway through cooking for even browning.

Serve:

Remove the hot pockets from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious Ghanaian-inspired hot pockets with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce or a spicy pepper sauce.

Ghanaian Meat Pies

Tips & Variations:

For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño pepper to the filling.

Substitute the ground meat with shredded chicken or plant-based protein.

Add some chopped spinach or kale to the filling for extra nutrients.

For a vegetarian option, use a mixture of vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and peppers.

Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack or provolone.

What makes Ghanaian meat pies different from regular hot pockets?

While both Ghanaian meat pies and American hot pockets are handheld pastries filled with savory ingredients, there are a few key differences:

Ingredients: Ghanaian meat pies typically use different spices and herbs, such as ginger, chili powder, and smoked paprika. They may also include plantains or other locally available ingredients.   

Texture: Ghanaian meat pies often have a flakier crust due to the use of different types of fat.

Flavor profile: The flavors in Ghanaian meat pies tend to be bolder and spicier than those in American hot pockets.


Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes, you can absolutely bake these instead of air frying. Here are the instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Place the hot pockets on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.


What are some good dipping sauces for Ghanaian meat pies?

Here are a few suggestions for dipping sauces that pair well with Ghanaian meat pies:

Marinara sauce: A classic choice that complements the savory flavors of the meat pie.

Spicy pepper sauce: Adds a kick of heat to the dish.

Avocado crema: A creamy and tangy sauce that is perfect for dipping.

Peanut sauce: A flavorful and versatile sauce that is often used in West African cuisine.

Mango chutney: A sweet and tangy sauce that adds a touch of sweetness to the dish.


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