Paw Foots
Paw Foots are savory fried turnovers filled with seasoned ground beef, offering a crispy exterior and flavorful filling, perfect for hearty snacks or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef seasoned with salt and pepper until browned.
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Add hot water to the dry ingredients and mix to form a dough.
- Roll out the dough on a floured board and cut into circular shapes with a knife.
- Place cooked meat on half of each dough circle.
- Fold over and pinch the edges firmly to seal.
- Fry the filled dough in deep fat until brown and crispy.
- Place on a lined pan and cover until ready to serve.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the ground beef while cooking. If you prefer, you can substitute half of the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Ensure the dough is not too thick for even frying; a thickness of about 1/4 inch works best. This recipe can also be adapted to make vegetarian versions using lentils or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Paw Foots hot with a side of Moma'S Potato Salad for a refreshing contrast. They also pair well with a simple green salad or a dip like ranch or salsa. For a hearty meal, consider serving with Betty Crocker'S Swiss Steak as a flavorful main dish alongside these delightful bites.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Paw Foots should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paw Foots contains roughly 87 calories, with 5g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2241mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Paw Foots for later use?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked Paw Foots. Assemble them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Adjust the seasoning to ensure the flavor is rich and satisfying, just like in classic American recipes.
How do I ensure the dough is flaky?
To achieve a flaky dough, be careful not to overwork it when mixing the ingredients. Use hot water to help create steam during cooking, which contributes to a light texture. Additionally, rolling it out evenly will help maintain its structure while frying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).