Savory Traditional Meat Pie

Why Make This Recipe

Savory Traditional Meat Pie is a dish that evokes warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. It is a classic recipe passed down through generations and has a great way to bring family together over a hearty meal. The combination of tender ground beef, onions, garlic, and optional carrots, all simmered in a rich broth, creates a flavorful filling that blends perfectly with a flaky, golden crust.

This recipe is versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it friendly for different palates. You might choose to stick with traditional flavors or add your twist, but either way, this meat pie is sure to please. An added bonus is that this dish can be prepared in advance and stored, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

So why not try your hand at this delightful recipe? Your family and friends will love you for it!

How to Make Savory Traditional Meat Pie

Making a Savory Traditional Meat Pie is a straightforward process. With a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here’s how you can do it:

Ingredients:

• 1 recipe Pie Crust (Choose your favorite recipe or store-bought)
• 1 egg (for Egg Wash, to brush over the crust before baking)
• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1 medium Onion
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 2 medium Carrots (Optional)
• 2 tablespoons Flour
• 1 cup Beef Broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 teaspoon Thyme
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Make the Pie Crust: If you’re making your own pie crust from scratch, be sure to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you’re using a store-bought crust, let it sit at room temperature so it’s easier to work with.

2. Prepare the Filling: Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. If necessary, add a little oil to the pan. Once the skillet is hot, add the chopped onions and let them cook for about 5 minutes until they become translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and optional diced carrots, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking it until it is browned throughout. After the beef is browned, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir until everything is well combined. Gradually pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, seasoning the mixture with thyme, salt, and pepper to your taste. Let the filling simmer for a few minutes to develop the flavors.

3. Prepare the Pie: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out your pie dough on a lightly floured surface and gently place it into a pie dish. Pour the prepared meat mixture into the dough, making sure it’s evenly spread. If you have a second piece of dough, roll it out and cover the filling, sealing the edges with your fingers or a fork. It’s essential to cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape and to brush the crust with an egg wash for a nice, golden color.

4. Baking: Place your pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.

5. Cooling: After taking the pie out of the oven, let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps the filling to set and makes serving easier. Serve it warm with your choice of salad, vegetables, or mashed potatoes.

How to Serve Savory Traditional Meat Pie

When it’s time to serve your Savory Traditional Meat Pie, there are various options you can consider.

• Solo Delight: A meat pie can be served as a main dish on its own, straight from the oven. Cut it into wedges and place it on plates.

• With Sides: To make it a more complete meal, consider pairing your meat pie with fresh greens. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would add a refreshing touch. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty dining experience.

• Toppings: Some enjoy adding a dollop of gravy or a splash of hot sauce over their slice for added flavor. Experiment with your favorite sauces or condiments to suit your taste preferences.

How to Store Savory Traditional Meat Pie

If you have leftovers or want to make your Savory Traditional Meat Pie in advance, storing it correctly is essential to maintaining its flavor and texture.

• Refrigerator: Allow the pie to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat it, reheat individual slices in the oven or microwave until heated through.

• Freezing: To freeze a meat pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven to ensure even heating.

• Reheating: Whether from the fridge or freezer, reheating in the oven is the best method to retain the crispness of the crust. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated thoroughly, about 20-30 minutes.

Tips to Make Savory Traditional Meat Pie

1. Customize the Filling: Feel free to mix up the filling based on your preference. Try adding peas, corn, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. Use different herbs or spices to personalize the taste.

2. Blind Bake: If you’re concerned about a soggy bottom crust, consider blind baking the bottom crust before adding the filling. Simply line the pie crust with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights, and bake for about 10 minutes before removing the weights and adding the filling.

3. Make Mini Pies: For a fun twist, you can create individual-sized meat pies using muffin tins. Roll out the dough, cut it into circles, and fit them into the tins for easy individual servings.

4. Use Leftovers: This recipe is an excellent way to use up leftover cooked meat or vegetables. Just adjust the amounts and skip the browning step since the meat is already cooked.

5. Don’t Rush with Cooling: Allowing the pie to cool before slicing helps to set the filling, which makes for cleaner slices.

6. Explore Different Crusts: Not only traditional pie crusts work well, but you can also use puff pastry or even a biscuit topping for a different flavor profile.

Variation

While the traditional preparation is delicious, consider trying these variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of chopped veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth and skip any meat sauces.

• Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or chili powder to the beef filling for a spicier version of the meat pie. This creates a delightful kick that many will love.

• Herbed Version: Incorporate different herbs such as rosemary or parsley for an aromatic flair to the filling. Herbs can enhance the overall taste and make the pie more fragrant.

FAQs

1. Can I make the pie dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pie dough a day in advance and store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen, so you can have it ready whenever you like.

2. What can I serve with meat pie?

Meat pie pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with gravy or a tangy sauce to enhance the flavors.

3. How do I know when the meat pie is done?

The meat pie is done when the crust is golden brown. You can check the filling by inserting a knife into the center; if it comes out hot, your pie is ready to serve!

4. Can I use other meats for the filling?

Certainly! You can use ground chicken, turkey, or even pork for different flavors. If you prefer, mixing different meats can create a unique taste as well.

5. Is it necessary to use Worcestershire sauce?

While Worcestershire sauce adds a great depth of flavor to the dish, it’s not strictly necessary. You can substitute it with soy sauce or simply omit it if you prefer.

6. How do I store leftover meat pie?

Once cooled, tightly wrap any leftover meat pie in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for a longer shelf life, up to 2-3 months.

Making a Savory Traditional Meat Pie is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating comforting memories and sharing delicious moments with loved ones. Embrace the simplicity and joys of home cooking with this delightful dish. Enjoy making, serving, and sharing this versatile and satisfying pie—you just might find it becomes a family favorite!

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