Frequently Asked Questions
What are Southern Fried Fruit Pies?
They are a traditional Southern dessert featuring a flaky, golden crust filled with rehydrated dried fruits, fried until crispy.
What type of fat is best for an authentic Southern crust?
While Crisco is commonly used, lard is recommended for a truly authentic Southern touch.
Can I use a food processor for this recipe?
Yes, a food processor is used to combine the fat and flour until they resemble coarse crumbs and to blend the dough into a ball.
How much flour is required for the dough?
This recipe calls for 1 cup of plain, all-purpose flour.
What is the measurement for salt in the crust?
The recipe requires 1/8 teaspoon of salt.
Why is hot water used in the dough?
1/4 cup of hot water is added gradually to help the dough form a ball in the food processor.
Does the recipe use a whole egg?
No, only 1 egg yolk is used in the dough mixture.
How thick should I roll out the dough?
The dough should be rolled out to approximately 1/8 inch thick.
What size should the dough circles be?
Use a round cutter to create circles that are at least 4 inches in diameter.
How do I prepare the fruit filling?
Rehydrate your choice of dried fruit according to the instructions on the package.
Which fruit is recommended for the filling?
Apricot is highly recommended for its sweet and tangy flavor profile.
How much filling should I put in each pie?
Place about 1 heaping tablespoon of prepared fruit in the center of each dough circle.
What is the shape of a Southern Fried Fruit Pie?
The dough is folded over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
How do you seal the edges of the pies?
Seal the edges by pressing them firmly with a fork.
Why is it important to seal the edges well?
A tight seal ensures that no fruit filling escapes while the pies are frying.
What type of oil is recommended for frying?
Canola oil is used for frying these pies.
How much oil should I put in the skillet?
Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a deep skillet.
What temperature should the oil be?
The oil should be heated over medium heat.
How long does it take to fry each pie?
Fry each pie for approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
How do I know when the pies are done?
The pies are ready when they are golden brown on both sides.
What should I do after frying the pies?
Remove the pies from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
Can these pies be eaten cold?
Yes, these pies are delicious whether served warm or at room temperature.
How many calories are in one Southern Fried Fruit Pie?
Each pie contains approximately 240 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 14 grams of fat in each serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a pie?
Each pie has about 22 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in a serving?
Each serving provides 2 grams of protein.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients required for this recipe.
Is this recipe considered difficult?
No, it is described as an easy dessert that can be whipped up quickly using a food processor.
Is this a family recipe?
Yes, the recipe is inspired by the author's grandmother's kitchen and cherished family traditions.
What category of food does this fall into?
It is categorized as a dessert and classic Southern comfort food.