Tropical Pineapple Coconut Pies
Transport your taste buds to the stunning shores of American Samoa with these delectable Tropical Pineapple Coconut Pies, also known as Paifala. Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the islands, this recipe showcases the vibrant flavors of crushed pineapple and creamy coconut. Each half-moon-shaped pie boasts a sweet and tangy filling encased in a golden, flaky crust. Perfect for dessert or a sweet treat at any gathering, these pies are not only a delightful homage to American Samoan cuisine but also a simple yet satisfying addition to your culinary repertoire. With a preparation method reminiscent of calzones, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends!
N/A
Servings
250
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Crushed Pineapple
2 cups (Drained)
Sugar
1 cup (None)
Milk
1/2 cup (None)
Cornstarch
1/3 cup (Mixed with reserved juice)
Pineapple Juice
1/3 cup (Reserved from crushed pineapple)
All-Purpose Flour
3 cups (None)
Baking Powder
2 teaspoons (None)
Butter
1/3 cup (Melted)
Coconut Milk
1 cup (None)
Salt
1 pinch (None)
Instructions
1
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the drained crushed pineapple, sugar, and milk. Heat over medium-low until the mixture simmers gently, being cautious not to let it boil to avoid curdling the milk.
2
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the reserved pineapple juice until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the simmering pineapple mixture, stirring continuously until it thickens. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and coconut milk. Mix well until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough into five equal portions. Roll each portion into an 8-inch circle on a lightly floured surface.
4
Spoon a generous amount of the cooled pineapple filling onto one half of each circle, leaving about a 1/4 inch border. Fold the other half over the filling and pinch to seal. Fold the bottom edge over the top edge, then crimp securely with a fork to ensure the filling is enclosed.
5
Using a fork, prick a couple of small holes on the top surface of each pie to allow steam to escape. Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown.
6
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delightful Tropical Pineapple Coconut Pies warm or at room temperature!
Nutrition Information
8g
Fat
40g
Carbs
2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tropical Pineapple Coconut Pies?
These are delicious half-moon-shaped pies from American Samoa, also known as Paifala, featuring a sweet pineapple and coconut filling.
What is the traditional name for these pies?
The traditional name for these Tropical Pineapple Coconut Pies is Paifala.
Where does this recipe originate?
This recipe is inspired by the rich culinary traditions of American Samoa.
What are the primary flavors in Paifala?
The primary flavors are sweet crushed pineapple and creamy coconut milk.
What type of crust do these pies have?
These pies feature a golden, flaky crust that is similar in shape and preparation to a calzone.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 10 main ingredients including crushed pineapple, coconut milk, and all-purpose flour.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 250 calories.
How much fat is in one Tropical Pineapple Coconut Pie?
Each pie contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
What are the carbohydrate and protein counts?
One serving has 40 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of protein.
Should I discard the pineapple juice from the crushed pineapple?
No, you should reserve 1/3 cup of the juice to mix with cornstarch to thicken the filling.
How is the pineapple filling prepared?
The filling is prepared by simmering drained pineapple, sugar, and milk, then thickening it with a cornstarch and juice mixture.
Why shouldn't the pineapple and milk mixture boil?
The mixture should only simmer gently to avoid curdling the milk.
How do you thicken the pie filling?
The filling is thickened by adding a mixture of cornstarch and reserved pineapple juice to the simmering ingredients.
What ingredients make up the dough?
The dough consists of all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, melted butter, and coconut milk.
How many pies does this recipe yield?
The recipe instructs to divide the dough into five equal portions, yielding five pies.
How large should I roll each dough portion?
Each portion should be rolled into an 8-inch circle on a lightly floured surface.
How do you shape the Paifala?
Spoon filling onto one half of the dough circle, fold the other half over to create a half-moon, then pinch and crimp the edges.
Why do you prick the top of the pies with a fork?
Pricking small holes in the top allows steam to escape during the baking process.
What is the recommended baking temperature?
The pies should be baked in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
How long do the pies need to bake?
Bake the pies for 30 to 35 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
Should the filling be hot or cold when added to the dough?
The pineapple filling should be cooled to room temperature before being added to the dough.
Is coconut milk used in the filling or the dough?
Coconut milk is specifically used as a liquid component in the dough mixture.
Can these pies be eaten cold?
Yes, they can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
How do you ensure the pies are securely sealed?
After folding, pinch the edges, fold the bottom edge over the top, and crimp securely with a fork.
What type of milk is used in the filling?
Regular milk is used in the filling, while coconut milk is used in the dough.
Does the recipe require salt?
Yes, one pinch of salt is added to the dough mixture.
What baking equipment is needed?
You will need a medium saucepan, a large mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and parchment paper.
What is the prep method compared to?
The preparation and shaping method is reminiscent of making calzones.
Is baking powder used in this recipe?
Yes, 2 teaspoons of baking powder are used to help the dough rise slightly.
How much butter is used in the dough?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of melted butter.