Hopia

Hopia is a Filipino-Chinese pastry known for its flaky crust and sweet filling. It is a favorite snack, often filled with mung bean paste, ube (purple yam), or pork. The name "hopia" means "good pastry," making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

Dough 1 (Oil Dough):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup shortening or lard

Dough 2 (Water Dough):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp sugar

• ½ cup water

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

For the Filling (Mung Bean Paste):

• 1 cup mung beans (soaked overnight)

• 1 cup sugar

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

1. Drain the soaked mung beans and boil until soft. Mash or blend into a smooth paste.

2. In a pan, cook the mung bean paste with sugar and oil over medium heat until thickened. Let it cool and set aside.

Make the Doughs:

1. Oil Dough: Combine flour and shortening until crumbly and forms a dough.

2. Water Dough: Mix flour, sugar, water, and oil to form a smooth dough.

Combine the Doughs:

1. Divide both doughs into equal portions.

2. Flatten a piece of water dough, place a piece of oil dough in the center, and wrap it completely. Roll it out into a flat oval, fold into thirds, and roll it again. Repeat this for all portions.

Assemble the Hopia:

1. Roll the prepared doughs into a circle. Add a spoonful of filling in the center, then pinch and seal the edges. Shape into a flat disc.

2. Place the hopia on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Bake:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).

2. Brush the top of each hopia with egg wash (optional for golden color). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cool and Serve:

Let the hopia cool before serving. Enjoy with coffee or tea!