1. Prepare the Fruit Filling:
- In a saucepan, combine the diced apples or peaches, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is tender (about 10-15 minutes).
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to form a paste. Stir the paste into the fruit mixture, and continue to cook until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Cut in the cold vegetable shortening using a pastry cutter or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice-cold water, 1-2 tablespoons at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. You want the dough to be pliable but not sticky.
- Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a golf ball, and roll each portion into a circle about 1/8-inch thick.
3. Assemble the Pies:
- Place a spoonful of the cooled fruit filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edge.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
- Seal the edges by pressing them together with a fork.
4. Fry the Pies:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350-375°F (175-190°C).
- Carefully add the pies to the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the pies with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve:
- Serve your fried apple or peach pies warm. You can dust them with powdered sugar or serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Enjoy these delicious hand pies as a dessert or a sweet snack.