Introduction
Ah, the delightful meat pie! A true British classic that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. With a rich filling of minced beef and lamb, nestled in a buttery shortcrust pastry, these pies are perfect for cozy nights in or entertaining friends. The aroma of savory spices and tender meat wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone feel at home. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this comforting recipe that will surely become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients
- 1 pound (500g) minced beef
- ½ pound (250g) minced lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound (500g) shortcrust pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 12 pies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), setting the stage for that delicious golden crust.
- In a large skillet, warm a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they soften and become aromatic.
- Next, introduce the minced beef and lamb to the skillet. Cook until well-browned, allowing those rich flavors to develop.
- Stir in the diced carrots and continue cooking for about 5 minutes, until they’re slightly tender.
- Mix in the tomato paste, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, alongside a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for approximately 15 minutes, allowing it to thicken beautifully.
- While the filling simmers, roll out the shortcrust pastry on a floured surface. Cut circles for both the base and tops of your pies.
- Line a muffin tin with the pastry circles, creating a cozy nest for the flavorful meat mixture.
- Fill each pastry-lined cup with the scrumptious meat filling, then cover with another circle of pastry, sealing the edges with a pinch.
- Brush the tops of the pies with the beaten egg, ensuring a lovely golden finish as they bake.
- Carefully place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and irresistible.
- Once baked, allow your delicious creations to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a side of peas or a creamy potato mash!
Notes or Tips
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the meat mixture during cooking. If you have leftovers, these pies freeze beautifully! Just bake them until golden and then cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Techniques
Sautéing the onions and garlic at the beginning is essential to building a flavorful base. Take care not to rush this step! Also, make sure to seal the edges of the pastry well; this ensures that all those luscious juices stay contained within the pie while baking, resulting in a rich and hearty filling.
FAQ
Can I use different meats? Absolutely! While beef and lamb are traditional, feel free to experiment with minced chicken or pork for a different twist.
How can I ensure my pastry is flaky? Handle the pastry as little as possible and keep it cold until you’re ready to bake. This will help it maintain a tender, flaky texture.
Conclusion
There you have it—a classic British meat pie that not only fills the belly but also nourishes the heart. These delightful pastries are sure to be a hit at any gathering or a comforting meal on a chilly evening. So gather your loved ones, serve these scrumptious pies, and enjoy the cozy warmth they bring to your table!