Golden Crispy Puff Pastry Meat Pockets

Golden Crispy Puff Pastry Meat Pockets
These savory puff pastry meat pockets are flaky, golden, and packed with a rich, flavorful filling. Perfect for dinner, snacks, or party appetizers, they come together easily and taste absolutely irresistible fresh from the oven!
Ingredients
For the Filling
300 g (10.5 oz) minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
1 carrot, grated
1 onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp chili flakes or dried peppers
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp tomato sauce or ketchup (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped
For the Pastry
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg yolk, for brushing
Sesame seeds or black seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and fragrant. Stir in the garlic and grated carrot, then cook for 2–3 minutes.
Cook the Meat
Add the minced meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with basil, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the tomato sauce if using, and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly. Mix in fresh parsley.
Shape the Pastries
Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares or rectangles. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each piece.
Seal and Decorate
Fold the pastry over the filling and press the edges with a fork to seal. Arrange on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and beautifully golden brown.
Serving Suggestion
Serve warm with a fresh salad, yogurt dip, or your favorite spicy sauce for an extra delicious touch!



