Hand pies and turnovers are both popular baked goods that are often enjoyed as a quick snack or dessert. While they may look similar at first glance, there are actually some key differences between these two treats.
Hand pies are individual-sized pies that are usually made with a single crust and filled with sweet or savory ingredients. They may be shaped like a traditional pie, with a top and bottom crust that are crimped together, or they may be a simpler design with a single layer of dough folded over a filling. Turnovers, on the other hand, are a type of pastry that is typically made with puff pastry dough and filled with sweet or savory ingredients. They are usually a triangular or crescent shape, with the filling enclosed in the pastry and the edges crimped together.
Anatomy of a Hand Pie and a Turnover: Key Differences
Hand pies and turnovers are both delicious pastry treats that are loved by many across the world. However, many people tend to use these terms interchangeably, which can be quite confusing. Although the two snacks share some similarities, they are quite different from each other, especially in terms of their anatomy.
Hand pies are slightly smaller than turnovers and are designed to be eaten with one hand. They are often filled with savory ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and cheese, or sweet fillings like fruits and custard. On the other hand, turnovers are larger, and usually, have a flaky, buttery crust filled with fruits, cheese, or chocolate. They also tend to be more triangular in shape, which is quite unlike hand pies that take on more of a pocket shape. The crust of a turnover is usually thicker and crispier, while the crust of a hand pie is tender and flakey.
History and Origin of Hand Pies and Turnovers
The history and origin of hand pies and turnovers can be traced back to medieval times when portable and easy-to-eat meals were in high demand. Turnovers were originally known as pasties and were common in the UK. They were often filled with meat, vegetables, and gravy, and were convenient for miners and other workers to take to work.
Hand pies, on the other hand, are believed to have originated in the American South and were filled with fruit and sweeteners. They were often made for special occasions such as picnics and church potlucks. Nowadays, both hand pies and turnovers come in a variety of flavors, sizes, and shapes, and can be sweet or savory. They remain a popular choice as a quick grab-and-go snack or meal, and are enjoyed by people all over the world.
Filling Choices: Comparison of Hand Pies and Turnovers
When it comes to filling choices, hand pies and turnovers offer an array of options. Hand pie fillings are usually chunkier, often including fruits, veggies, cheese, and meat. These fillings are typically mixed with some type of thickener, such as cornstarch or tapioca, to prevent the filling from becoming too runny or leaking out of the pie.
On the other hand, turnovers generally feature smoother fillings, often made from fruit or sweetened cream cheese. These fillings contain less thickener and tend to be sweeter than hand pie fillings. While both hand pies and turnovers can be filled with a variety of ingredients, hand pies generally lend themselves better to savory applications, while turnovers work well as a dessert option. Ultimately, the choice of filling depends on personal preference and the occasion for which the pies are being served.
Crust Characteristics: Hand Pies vs Turnovers
Crust is an essential component of both hand pies and turnovers. The hand pie crust is denser and thicker, with a heavier concentration of butter or shortening, resulting in a flakier texture. This crust is made from regular pie dough or a variation of it.
On the other hand, the turnover crust is more delicate and puffier than a hand pie crust. It is made from laminated dough, usually a type of puff pastry. This dough creates more layers in the crust, which results in a light, fluffy, and crispy texture. The laminated dough in a turnover guarantees that the crust will be evenly melted and crispy throughout the turnover. The crust is the most significant difference between the two; it depends on which crust you prefer – dense and flaky for hand pies or delicate and crispy puff pastry for turnovers.
Sweet vs Savory: Which One is Better for Hand Pies and Turnovers?
When it comes to deciding between sweet and savory, it all boils down to personal preferences. Both hand pies and turnovers can be made into sweet or savory versions, depending on the filling used. Sweet hand pies and turnovers are typically filled with fruit, chocolate, or caramel, while savory ones have meat, cheese, or vegetables.
If you have a sweet tooth, you might prefer hand pies and turnovers with a fruity filling or a gooey chocolate center. On the other hand, if you love savory flavors, you’ll enjoy hand pies and turnovers with a spicy chicken filling or a cheesy spinach and mushroom filling. Ultimately, the choice between sweet and savory boils down to the occasion. Sweet hand pies and turnovers are perfect for dessert while savory ones make a delicious snack or appetizer.
Preparing Hand Pies and Turnovers: Similarities and Differences
Both hand pies and turnovers are prepared in a similar manner, with the main difference being the shape of the finished product. Hand pies are typically smaller than turnovers and may be individual serving sizes, while turnovers are larger and typically serve two or three people. Both can be made from a variety of fillings, such as fruit, vegetables, meat, or cheese.
When preparing hand pies and turnovers, the dough is rolled out and cut into circles or rectangles. The filling is placed in the center of the dough, then the edges are crimped or sealed to enclose the filling. Hand pies may be baked or fried, while turnovers are baked in the oven. Some recipes call for brushing the tops with egg wash or milk to create a golden-brown crust. Overall, both hand pies and turnovers are delicious and convenient snacks or meal options that can be customized to suit any taste preference or dietary need.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Hand Pies and Turnovers in Different Ways
When it comes to serving hand pies and turnovers, there are countless ways to enjoy these delicious treats. For a savory hand pie or turnover, these pastries are a perfect addition to a lunchtime meal. They can be served with a side salad or a cup of soup, making for a satisfying lunch option. Another way to serve savory hand pies and turnovers is for dinner. They pair well with roasted vegetables, steamed greens, and even mashed potatoes. They also make a great meal for a family picnic or a sports game.
Sweet hand pies and turnovers are a great option for dessert. They can be served alone or accompanied by a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. These pastries also make a great breakfast option, paired with a cup of coffee or tea. Additionally, they can be enjoyed as a mid-day snack, as they are a portable and convenient option that can be packed in a lunchbox or taken on-the-go. No matter how you choose to serve hand pies and turnovers, they are sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, while hand pies and turnovers share many similarities, there are a few key differences that set them apart. Hand pies are generally smaller and more portable, with a thicker pastry crust that can withstand being held in one’s hand. Turnovers, on the other hand, are larger and often rectangular in shape, with a flakier, more delicate pastry crust.
Both hand pies and turnovers are versatile and delicious, and can be filled with a wide range of sweet or savory ingredients. Whether you prefer the heartiness of a hand pie or the delicate texture of a turnover, both are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a quick snack on the go. So next time you’re in the mood for a delicious pastry treat, consider trying a hand pie or a turnover – or both!