Meat Pie Recipe

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Introduction:
Meat Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that features a flavorful filling of seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and gravy, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. This classic savory pie is a beloved comfort food in many cultures around the world, offering a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. With its delicious combination of savory flavors and buttery pastry, Meat Pie is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Origin and Popularity:
The origin of Meat Pie can be traced back to ancient times, with variations of the dish found in numerous cultures throughout history. In medieval Europe, meat pies were a staple of peasant cuisine, providing a filling and nutritious meal for the masses. Over time, Meat Pie evolved into a beloved comfort food enjoyed in countries such as England, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and many others. Each region has its own unique twist on the classic recipe, with variations in the type of meat used, seasonings, and pastry crust.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

  • 1 pound ground beef, lamb, pork, or a combination
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

For the Pastry:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 6-8 tablespoons ice water

Optional Toppings:

  • Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
  • Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for sprinkling

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Filling:
  • In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  • Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  • If using, sprinkle the flour over the meat mixture and stir to combine. This will help thicken the filling.
  • Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  • Stir in the frozen peas, then remove the skillet from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  1. Make the Pastry:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled, cubed butter, and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
  • Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  1. Assemble the Meat Pie:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough into a circle large enough to line the bottom and sides of a pie dish or baking dish.
  • Carefully transfer the rolled-out pastry dough to the pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
  • Spoon the cooled meat filling into the pastry-lined dish, spreading it out evenly.
  1. Add the Top Crust:
  • Roll out the remaining pastry dough into a circle large enough to cover the top of the pie.
  • Place the pastry circle over the filling, crimp the edges to seal, and trim any excess dough.
  1. Bake the Meat Pie:
  • If desired, brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds for added flavor and texture.
  • Use a sharp knife to make a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
  • Place the pie dish on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
  1. Serve and Enjoy:
  • Remove the Meat Pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
  • Serve slices of the Meat Pie hot, accompanied by your favorite sides or condiments, such as mashed potatoes, gravy, or a side salad.
  • Enjoy the delicious flavors and comforting warmth of this classic savory pie!

Tips:

  • For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of ground meats, such as beef and pork, in the filling.
  • Feel free to customize the filling with additional vegetables or seasonings, according to your taste preferences.
  • If you prefer a crispier bottom crust, you can blind bake the bottom crust before adding the filling.

Conclusion:
Meat Pie is a timeless classic that offers a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion. With its flavorful filling of seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and gravy, all encased in a flaky pastry crust, this savory pie is sure to warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Whether served as a cozy family dinner or as the centerpiece of a festive gathering, Meat Pie is a versatile and delicious dish that

is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Recommendation:
Pair slices of Meat Pie with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table. Serve with your favorite condiments, such as ketchup, mustard, or gravy, for added flavor. Enjoy the comforting goodness of Meat Pie with family and friends, and savor the simple pleasures of homemade cooking!

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