Hopia: A Filipino Flaky Pastry
Hopia: A Filipino Flaky Pastry
Contents
Hopia is a beloved Filipino pastry known for its thin, flaky crust and sweet or savory fillings like mung bean, ube (purple yam), or pork. Introduced by Fujianese immigrants, it has become a staple snack and popular gift in the Philippines.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- ¼ cup water
For the Butter Dough:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
For the Filling:
- 1 cup ube (purple yam) jam or mung bean paste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, combine flour, salt, oil, and water. Mix until just combined. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Butter Dough: In another bowl, combine flour and butter. Cut the butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly. Wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Assemble the Dough: Roll the first dough into a rectangle. Crumble the butter dough evenly over it. Fold the dough into thirds, wrap, and refrigerate for another 15 minutes.
- Roll and Fold: Roll the dough again, fold into thirds, and refrigerate for 15 minutes. Repeat this step once more for flaky layers.
- Prepare the Filling: Scoop the ube jam or mung bean paste and roll into 24 equal-sized balls.
- Shape the Hopia: Roll the dough into a log and slice into 24 pieces. Flatten each piece, place a filling ball in the center, and wrap the dough around it. Pinch to seal and shape into a ball.
- Cook: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the hopia until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Tips and Variations
- Use store-bought ube jam or mung bean paste for convenience.
- For a savory option, try filling with ground pork and diced winter melon.
- Handle the dough gently to avoid overworking it.
FAQ
What is hopia?
Hopia is a Filipino flaky pastry filled with sweet or savory ingredients like mung bean, ube, or pork.
Can I bake hopia instead of pan-frying?
Yes, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
How long does hopia last?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze for up to a month.
Related guides
- Bibingka (Filipino Coconut Rice Cake)
- Bibingkang Malagkit (Filipino Sticky Rice Cake)
- Filipino Biko Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Sticky Rice Cake
- Buchi: Filipino Sesame Seed-Filled Rice Balls
- Buko Pandan: The Ultimate Filipino Creamy Coconut Dessert Salad