Mushroom and Onion Vegan Pies

Indulge in the hearty and flavorful world of mushroom and onion vegan pies, perfect for satisfying any craving while adhering to plant-based principles. These savory pastries are crafted with a soft, fluffy dough that encases a tantalizing filling of earthy mushrooms, caramelized onions, and a hint of smoked paprika. Ideal for a weekend baking session or a special occasion, these pies are as comforting as they are delicious. Despite their seemingly complex taste, they're surprisingly simple to make if you follow each step with care. These pastries also provide a versatile canvas for experimentation, allowing you to substitute or add ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you're preparing a cozy meal for yourself or treating guests, these vegan pies are sure to impress. The recipe is straightforward, encouraging even novice cooks to try their hand at pastry-making. Plus, the enticing aroma of baking pies will transform your kitchen into a delightful haven. Serve them as a main dish or an impressive appetizer at gatherings, and watch them disappear within minutes.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

500 g all-purpose flour (preferably type 550 or 812)
100 g soft baking margarine
10 g sugar
5 g salt
10 g dry yeast
400 ml warm water (approximately 35°C)

For the Filling:

200 g mushrooms (or substitute with tofu, pumpkin, Jerusalem artichokes, turnips)
1 onion
1 tablespoon margarine
1 tablespoon soy sauce
A pinch of garlic powder
A pinch of smoked paprika (or 1 teaspoon liquid smoke)

Preparation Time

Approximately 130 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large bowl, mix the flour with sugar, salt, and yeast.
Gradually add the warm water and mix until a uniform dough is formed.
Knead the margarine into the dough thoroughly.
The dough will be soft and sticky; shape it into a ball.
Dust with a little flour, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
In the meantime, start preparing the filling: dice the onions and mushrooms.
Melt margarine in a pan, add the onions and sauté until brown.
Add the mushrooms and cook briefly.
Stir in the soy sauce, allowing it to evaporate; season with garlic powder and smoked paprika. Let the mixture cool.
Once the dough has risen, place it on a floured surface and knead thoroughly.
Divide the dough into 18-20 pieces and flatten each one.
Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each piece.
Fold the edges over the filling to form a pie.
Preheat the oven to 220°C.
Arrange the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased.
Allow the pies to rise for another 10-15 minutes to prevent cracking during baking.
Optional: Brush the top of the pies with soy sauce for a deeper crust color.
Place a bowl of water in the oven to create steam and bake the pies for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from the oven, cover with a clean towel, and let them cool for at least 15 minutes.
Enjoy your delicious vegan pies while they are still warm.

Tips

For a richer dough, incorporate a bit more margarine into the mixture.
Don't rush the rising time, as it affects the softness of the pies.
If the dough is too sticky initially, resist adding excess flour; knead it longer instead.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 per pie
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 10g

Variations

Substitute mushrooms with diced tofu for a different texture.
Add a dash of nutritional yeast to the filling for a cheesy flavor.
Use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette.
Pair with a bowl of creamy tomato soup or vegetable stew.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.

Best Places

Dirt Candy - A vegan paradise offering creative vegetable dishes. Location: 86 Allen St, New York, USA.
The Gate - Famous for its inventive, delicious vegan cuisine. Location: St John's Wood, London, UK.
Manna - High-end vegan dining with a seasonal menu. Location: Primrose Hill, London, UK.
Crossroads Kitchen - Modern plant-based dining with Mediterranean influences. Location: Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
Terra Zen Café - Offers tranquil vibes and soul-soothing vegan dishes. Location: Overtoom 468, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Millennium - Known for gourmet vegetarian and vegan options. Location: Geary St, San Francisco, USA.
Loving Hut - A global chain serving a variety of vegan options. Location: 242 Queen Street, Melbourne, Australia.
Cafe Gratitude - Serves organic, sustainably sourced vegan comfort food. Location: Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
Gastronomishki - Beloved for its creative takes on traditional vegan recipes. Location: 8 Marta St, Moscow, Russia.
Chuchai - Offers an array of Asian-inspired vegan dishes. Location: St-Denis St, Montreal, Canada.