In addition to at least two springtime favorites, lamb and green peas, this suggestive dish combines the spices of a true cultural crossroads. There’s no question that centuries of occupation by Arab Saracens left their mark on Sicily, making sure the island lives breathed and especially cooked unlike
In addition to at least two springtime favorites, lamb and green peas, this suggestive dish combines the spices of a true cultural crossroads.
There’s no question that centuries of occupation by Arab Saracens left their mark on Sicily, making sure the island lives breathed and especially cooked unlike any other corner of Italy.
1 sheet puff pastry
½ pound coarsely ground lamb
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons minced red bell pepper
¼ cup minced spring onion, white and green parts
2 tablespoons minced celery
2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
¼ cup green peas
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon lemon pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
½ jar Fischer & Wieser’s Whole Lemon Fig Marmalade
1 egg, lightly beaten
Defrost the puff pastry. On a floured work surface, roll out puff pastry just big enough for four 7-inch circles. Cut out circles, layer with parchment and refrigerate while making filling. Make the filling by thoroughly cooking the ground lamb in the olive oil. Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, onion, celery, pine nuts and peas, cooking until softened. Stir in the tomato paste and lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, lemon pepper, paprika and cumin. When mixture is heated, add the marmalade and stir until incorporated. Let mixture cool. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Remove puff pastry circles from the fridge. Divide filling evenly between the four circles. Fold circle in half, into a half moon shape. Using the tines of a fork, gently seal the edge together. Beat egg and brush on the tops of each hand pie. Bake on parchment lined baking sheet. Turn oven to 375 after putting pies in oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Serves 4.