HAM STUFFED PASTRIES

Filling:
8 ounces smoked ham, not sliced but in one piece
3 1/2 ounces green or spring onions, sliced on the diagonal
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons sesame oil

Pastry:
1 pound plain flour
6 tablespoons cooking oil
2 teaspoons sesame oil
approximately 1 1/2 cups warm water

oil for deep frying

A fully cooked smoked ham does not need soaking. Steam the ham for 30 minutes. Allow to cool, and then mince, cutting the meat into tiny pieces. In a large bowl, combine the minced ham with the green onions, sugar, and sesame oil. To make the pastry, place the flour, cooking oil, and sesame oil in a large bowl. Mix with an electric mix or by hand with a wooden spoon, slowly adding the warm water. Knead the ingredients together until you have a pliable dough. Separate into two equal portions. On a floured work surface, roll out each half of dough until it is about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into 3 inch squares. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center, and wrap in an envelope shape. Press the edges to seal firmly. Heat wok and add oil for deep frying. Carefully slide in a few of the pastries at a time. Deep fry until they turn golden and crispy, turning once. Drain on paper towels. Cool and serve.