Lunch Box Pies

By Addie

The staple of every packed lunch was a cold-cut sandwich and a fried fruit pie. We've updated the recipe so you can recreate the pies at home and have your family's favorite flavors inside. Sprinkle them with confectioner's sugar, or top them with a light icing to satisfy your personal taste.

Ingredients

• 3 cups flour
• 1 tsp. salt
• 3/4 cup solid vegetable shortening
• 1 egg, slightly beaten
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 tsp. distilled white vinegar
• 1 can (any variety) Pie Filling or Topping
• Peanut or vegetable oil for frying

Preparation

Step 1

Combine flour and salt. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Combine egg and water; sprinkle lightly over flour mixture. Add vinegar; stir lightly with fork until dry ingredients are moistened. (Pastry can be prepared in food processor if desired.) Shape into a ball; wrap dough in wax paper. Chill for at least 1 hour.

Roll half of chilled dough to ¼-inch thickness. Cut four or five 5-inch circles. Repeat with remaining dough. Place 2 tablespoons pie filling in center of each circle. Moisten edges of circle with water; seal with fingers. Press down on edges with a fork.

In heavy skillet, heat 1-inch oil until oil sputters when drops of water are sprinkled on it. Gently place each pie into hot oil; fry and turn until both sides are lightly browned. Remove from oil; drain on rack or paper towel-lined plate. When pies cool, sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar if desired.

Makes 8-10 pies servings