Ingredients

  • Pastry
  • 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons vegetable shortening or 6 tablespoons lard
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • Filling
  • 2 cups chopped fresh peaches or 2 cups frozen peaches
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • Finish
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 large egg
  • canola oil, for frying

Method

  • The pastry: in a big bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt; cut in shortening using a pastry blender, until no pieces are larger than a pea.
  • Add the milk and combine, using a fork; gather the dough and knead lightly for 1 minute.
  • Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate while preparing the filling.
  • The filling: in a medium saucepan, combine the peaches, brown sugar, and allspice.
  • Cook and stir over medium heat for 5 minutes, or until the sugar is dissolved and the peaches are juicy.
  • In a small bowl, combine the vinegar and cornstarch; add to the peaches and cook/stir for 10 minutes, or until the mixture is thick and glossy.
  • Stir in the lemon juice; transfer mixture to a shallow dish to cool.
  • In a small shallow dish, combine sugar and cinnamon; set aside.
  • Make the pies: roll the dough 1/8 inch thick on a lightly floured surface.
  • With a sharp knife or cutter, cut ten 6-inch circles.
  • Place 2 tablespoons peach filling in the center of each circle.
  • Beat the egg with 1 teaspoon water; brush a thin line of egg wash around the edges of the circle.
  • Fold to form a half-moon shape; lightly press out any air pockets.
  • Press the edges with the tines of a fork to seal; pierce one time on top of each pie with a fork to let steam escape while frying.
  • Heat 1 inch of canola oil in a large skillet to 375A°; set a wire rack over a baking sheet lined with newspaper or paper towels.
  • Gently place pies, two at a time, pierced side up, in the skillet; fry to golden brown, turning once, 2 minutes per side.
  • Remove from oil and let drain briefly on wire rack.
  • Toss in the cinnamon sugar and allow to cool for 5 minutes.