Meat Pie

Meat Pie Recipe from Australia with Chuck Steak, Bacon, and Shortcrust Pastry

Region / culture: Australia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Meat pie is a classic comfort food that is loved by many around the world. This savory dish consists of tender chunks of meat, onions, and other flavorful ingredients encased in a flaky pastry crust. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal on its own or as a delicious snack, meat pie is sure to satisfy your cravings.

History

Meat pies have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of the dish found in many different cultures. In medieval Europe, meat pies were a popular way to preserve and enjoy meat, as the pastry crust helped to seal in the flavors and keep the filling fresh. Over time, different regions developed their own unique versions of meat pie, each with its own special ingredients and cooking techniques.

Ingredients

1.5 – 2 kg of chuck steak, trimmed and chopped into small cubes
3 bacon rashers (optional), chopped
2 onions, peeled and chopped
2 cups of water
0.5 tsp of black pepper
0.5 – 1 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of dried thyme (optional)
1 stick of celery, finely chopped (optional)
3 tbsp of plain flour
1 batch of shortcrust pastry

How to prepare

Fry the bacon and onion over low heat until the onion is soft.
Add the chopped steak.
Pour in the water and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Then add the celery.
Cover and simmer for about 1.5 hours.
Mix the flour with a little water to create a smooth, runny mixture (roux), then stir it into the meat mixture.
Stir until the mixture thickens.
Pour the mixture into a deep pie dish.
If you are making small pies, line small pie dishes with pastry and fill them with the meat mixture.
Moisten the rim of the pie with milk or beaten egg.
Place a layer of pastry on top of the pie to form a lid.
Trim the lid to match the shape and size of the pie dish.
Press the edges together with a fork to seal.
Make some steam holes in the top and glaze with beaten egg or milk.
Bake in a hot oven for 30 – 40 minutes (less time may be needed for the smaller ones).

Variations

Add diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture.
Use puff pastry instead of shortcrust pastry for a flakier and more buttery crust.
Substitute the beef with lamb, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to trim the excess fat from the meat before chopping it into cubes to ensure a lean and tender filling.

- Slowly simmering the meat mixture for at least 1.5 hours will help to develop rich flavors and tenderize the meat.

- Creating a roux with flour and water will help to thicken the meat mixture and create a luscious gravy-like consistency.

- Brushing the pastry with milk or beaten egg before baking will give the meat pie a golden and shiny crust.

Serving Suggestions

Meat pie can be enjoyed on its own as a main dish, or paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It is also delicious when served with a dollop of tomato sauce or chutney on the side.

Cooking Techniques

Slowly simmering the meat mixture will help to tenderize the meat and develop rich flavors.

- Pre-baking the pastry crust before adding the meat filling will help to prevent a soggy bottom crust.

- Brushing the pastry with an egg wash before baking will give the meat pie a shiny and golden crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth or stock instead of water for a vegetarian version of meat pie.

- Substitute the flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option.

- Replace the beef with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Meat pie can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining guests.

Presentation Ideas

Serve meat pie on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for a pop of color and flavor. You can also cut the pie into individual portions for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Meat pie pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For drinks, consider serving it with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover meat pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of meat pie contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of meat pie contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of meat pie contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of meat pie contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Meat pie is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are essential for maintaining healthy blood cells and supporting overall health.

Alergens

Meat pie may contain allergens such as wheat (from the pastry crust) and soy (from the flour used to thicken the filling).

Summary

Meat pie is a hearty and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal or snack.

Summary

Meat pie is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its tender meat filling, flaky pastry crust, and rich flavors, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed as a meal or snack, meat pie is a versatile and satisfying dish that is sure to please your taste buds.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a simple, yet delicious meat pie that my friend's grandmother used to make. The aroma of the savory filling and the flaky crust reminded me of home-cooked meals from my childhood. I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I asked my friend's grandmother for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. As she walked me through the steps, I could see the love and care she put into her cooking. She explained how she learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who passed it down through the generations.

The key to the perfect meat pie, she told me, was in the seasoning. A blend of herbs and spices that perfectly complemented the savory meat filling. She showed me how to mix the ingredients just right, ensuring that every bite would be bursting with flavor.

I watched as she expertly rolled out the dough, creating a perfectly flaky crust that would hold the hearty filling. The smell of the pie baking in the oven was almost intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

When the pie was finally ready, I eagerly took my first bite. The flavors danced on my tongue, and I knew I had found a new favorite recipe. My friend's grandmother smiled at me, pleased to see how much I enjoyed her creation.

I made the meat pie for my own family that weekend, and it was a hit. My children begged me to make it again, and I happily obliged. As I continued to perfect the recipe, I added my own twists and variations, making it my own.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of the delicious meat pie. Each time I made it, I thought of my friend's grandmother and the joy she had brought to our lives with her cooking.

Now, whenever I make the meat pie, I can't help but smile as I remember the first time I saw the recipe and how it has become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire. The simple, yet flavorful dish never fails to bring a sense of comfort and nostalgia to those who taste it.

As I continue to explore new recipes and techniques in the kitchen, I know that the meat pie will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul.

And so, I will always be grateful to my friend's grandmother for sharing her recipe with me, for passing down a piece of her family's history, and for inspiring me to create something truly delicious and unforgettable.