Savory Meat Pies Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
- 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) ice-cold water
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1/2 cup (120ml) beef or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
Instructions:
For the Pastry:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Cold Water:
- Gradually add the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll Out the Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
- Cutting Pastry Rounds:
- Using a round cutter, cut out circles for the pie crusts and line your greased muffin tin with the pastry circles.
For the Meat Filling:
- Cooking the Meat Mixture:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat.
- Add chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook until vegetables are tender.
- Flavoring the Filling:
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir to combine.
- Adding Broth:
- Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and simmer until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
- Assembling the Meat Pies:
- Spoon the meat filling into each pastry-lined muffin cup.
- Covering with Pastry:
- Roll out more pastry circles for the pie lids and cover each meat-filled cup. Seal the edges.
- Baking:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
- Serve Warm:
- Allow the meat pies to cool slightly before serving.
These savory meat pies are perfect for a hearty meal or as delightful snacks. Enjoy the flaky pastry and flavorful meat filling in every bite! 🥧🍖 #MeatPies #SavoryBaking #HomemadeComfort
The Tale of Savory Meat Pies:
In the world of culinary adventures, the story of Savory Meat Pies unfolds as a savory journey of flavors and traditions. Rooted in the essence of hearty comfort food, these handheld delights have traversed centuries and continents, earning their place as a cherished dish in diverse cultures.
The origin of meat pies can be traced back to ancient times when resourceful cooks sought ways to encase savory fillings within a portable crust. Across medieval Europe, these savory pastries emerged as practical and delectable solutions for busy households and travelers. Whether enjoyed by peasants in the fields or nobles in their castles, meat pies became a symbol of sustenance and satisfaction.
As time marched on, the art of crafting meat pies evolved, each region infusing its unique culinary identity. In England, the iconic Cornish Pasty became a symbol of mining communities, providing a convenient and nourishing meal for laborers. In Australia and New Zealand, the humble meat pie found its way into the hearts of locals, becoming a beloved snack at sporting events and a culinary icon.
The beauty of meat pies lies not only in their practicality but also in their adaptability. Whether filled with seasoned beef, a medley of meats, or savory vegetables, the possibilities are as diverse as the cultures that embrace them.
Today, the tradition of crafting savory meat pies continues, with home cooks and professional chefs alike experimenting with fillings, spices, and pastry techniques. From flaky, golden crusts to flavorful and hearty fillings, each meat pie tells a story of culinary ingenuity and a shared love for good food.
Savory Meat Pies have become more than a meal; they are a symbol of shared moments, gatherings, and the joy of savoring a delicious, handheld creation. As they continue to grace tables around the world, meat pies remind us that the simplest of dishes can carry a rich history and bring people together in the celebration of good food. 🥧🌍 #MeatPies #CulinaryTradition #SavoryDelights