If you’ve ever visited Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you’ve likely heard of pasties—handheld pies filled with hearty ingredients that have warmed countless miners and travelers through the decades. Today, you can bring a vegetarian twist to this classic dish with a recipe that highlights the natural sweetness and earthiness of root vegetables. With a flaky crust and a flavorful filling, this vegetarian Michigan pasty is perfect for a satisfying meal any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food at Its Best: Perfectly flaky pastry paired with a warm, savory filling.
• Wholesome and Nutritious: Packed with root vegetables and herbs for a balanced meal.
• Great for On-the-Go: Ideal for picnics, road trips, or a portable lunch.
• Customizable: You can tweak the filling to include your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Ingredients for Vegetarian Michigan Pasty

For the Dough

Ingredient	Quantity
Flour	3 cups
Salt	1 teaspoon
Butter	1 cup
Cold water	3/4 cup
Egg, beaten	1

For the Filling

Ingredient	Quantity
Diced rutabaga	1/2 cup
Finely chopped onion	1 yellow onion
Chopped Yukon potatoes	1 cup
Fresh parsley, chopped	1/4 cup
Minced sage	1 teaspoon
Butter	2 tablespoons
Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper	1/4 teaspoon
Salt	1 teaspoon

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water while mixing until the dough forms into a ball.
4. Knead the dough briefly, then wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for at least one hour.

2. Make the Filling

1. In a bowl, mix together the rutabaga, onion, Yukon potatoes, parsley, sage, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
2. Stir well to evenly distribute the herbs and seasoning.

3. Assemble the Pasties

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into six equal pieces.
3. Roll each piece into a round, approximately 1/8 inch thick.
4. Place an equal portion of the vegetable filling onto one side of each dough round.
5. Top the filling with 1 teaspoon of butter.
6. Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

4. Add the Finishing Touches

1. Brush the exterior of each pasty with the beaten egg for a golden crust.
2. Sprinkle lightly with salt for extra flavor.

5. Bake the Pasties

1. Place the pasties on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for 1 hour, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot.
3. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Pasty
Calories	400
Protein	8 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fat	20 g
Fiber	5 g
Sodium	600 mg

Tips for Success

1. Use Cold Ingredients: Keep the butter and water cold to ensure a flaky crust.
2. Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make it hard to seal the pasty.
3. Crimp Tightly: Ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent leaks.
4. Experiment with Fillings: Try adding mushrooms, leeks, or even grated cheese for variety.

FAQs About Vegetarian Michigan Pasties

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to two days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

2. Can I freeze the pasties?

Absolutely! Freeze uncooked pasties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

3. Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, feel free to customize the filling with vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to retain the crispiness of the crust.

5. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based egg wash or omit it entirely.

6. What can I serve with pasties?

Pair them with a simple salad, a side of coleslaw, or a warm bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Conclusion: A Taste of Michigan’s Tradition

Vegetarian Michigan pasties with root vegetables bring a modern twist to a classic dish. With their hearty filling and flaky crust, they are perfect for a comforting meal at home or on the go. The recipe’s adaptability ensures you can make it your own, and its nostalgic flavors are bound to win over anyone who takes a bite.

Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bake these delicious pasties today! Don’t forget to share your creations and spread the joy of this Michigan-inspired delight.

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