Ghanaian Meat Pies: Air Fryer African 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: 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
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.
Tips & Variations:
For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeΓ±o 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.