There's something undeniably comforting about the aroma of a freshly baked meat pie wafting through the kitchen. The golden crust, flaky and buttery, encases a rich and savoury filling that promises to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. In this article, we'll explore the art of crafting a classic meat pie, a timeless dish that has been enjoyed across generations.
Ingredients you will need:
For the Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water.
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or a mix of ground beef and pork.
- 1 onion, finely chopped.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 cup carrots, diced.
- 1 cup peas.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth.
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional).
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
- 1 egg (for egg wash).
Method
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough in half, shape each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat until cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onions and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until softened.
- Stir in the diced carrots and peas, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring well to combine.
- Pour in the broth and wine (if using), stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Allow the filling to cool.
3. Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out one of the chilled dough disks on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
- Place the rolled-out dough in the pie dish, pressing it gently to the edges.
- Spoon the cooled meat filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Roll out the second dough disk and cover the filling. Seal the edges and crimp with a fork to create a decorative border.
- Beat an egg and brush it over the top crust for a golden finish.
4. Bake to Perfection:
- Make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
With its flaky crust and hearty filling, this traditional meat pie is a culinary journey that transcends time.
Whether enjoyed on a cosy evening at home or shared during festive gatherings, this classic recipe captures the essence of comfort food at its finest. Embrace the warmth and tradition as you savour each delicious bite of this timeless delight.
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