Steak and Guinness Pie

Steak and Guinness Pie Recipe - Traditional Irish Dish

Region / culture: Ireland | Servings: 6

Introduction

Steak and Guinness Pie is a hearty and delicious dish that combines tender chunks of steak with a rich and flavorful Guinness stout gravy, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. This classic comfort food is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with friends and family.

History

Steak and Guinness Pie is a traditional Irish dish that dates back to the 18th century. It was originally made with leftover meat and vegetables, cooked in a rich Guinness gravy, and topped with a pastry crust. Over the years, the recipe has evolved to include fresh ingredients and different variations, but the heartwarming flavors remain the same.

Ingredients

1 x 12 inches pie pastry
2 lb (907 g) round steak, diced
1 tbsp flour
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp raisins
5 medium size onions, chopped
1 bottle Guinness stout
8 slices bacon
3 tbsp butter
chopped parsley

How to prepare

In a casserole, heat butter.
Cook steak, flour, and bacon over medium heat until browned.
In a separate pan, sauté onions until browned.
Then add the onions to the casserole.
Add raisins, brown sugar, and Guinness. Stir well.
Cover the casserole and let it cook and simmer over low heat for 2.5 hours.
Add water when the gravy mixture thickens rapidly.
While the meat is cooking, take out a pie dish and coat it with half of the pastry. Bake it.
Place the cooked meat and gravy mixture in the pie dish.
Cover it with the remaining pastry.
Bake for 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Variations

Add mushrooms or carrots to the gravy mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Use puff pastry instead of pie pastry for a lighter and flakier crust.
Substitute the steak with lamb or chicken for a different twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the steak and bacon before adding them to the casserole. This will help to develop a deep, rich flavor in the dish.

- Sautéing the onions until browned will also add a caramelized sweetness to the gravy.

- Be sure to cover the casserole while simmering to keep the meat tender and the flavors locked in.

- If the gravy thickens too quickly, simply add a bit of water to thin it out.

- For a golden brown and flaky pastry crust, brush the top with an egg wash before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Steak and Guinness Pie hot with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Pair it with a pint of Guinness or a glass of red wine for the perfect Irish feast.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meat and onions before simmering will enhance the depth of flavor in the dish.

- Covering the casserole while cooking will help to keep the meat tender and juicy.

- Baking the pie at a high temperature will ensure a golden brown and crispy crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth or beef broth instead of Guinness for a non-alcoholic version of the dish.

- Substitute the steak with stewing beef or lamb for a different texture and flavor.

- Replace the raisins with dried cranberries or apricots for a sweet and tangy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the pie in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling and baking.

- The pie can also be baked ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pie with chopped parsley or fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness. - Serve the pie in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. - Cut the pie into slices and serve on a platter for a family-style meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Steak and Guinness Pie with a side of colcannon or Irish soda bread for a traditional Irish meal.

- Serve with a side salad or coleslaw for a lighter and fresher accompaniment.

- Enjoy with a glass of red wine, stout beer, or a cup of hot tea for a cozy and comforting dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pie 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.

- You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

380

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 22g

- Saturated Fat: 9g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 28g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 4%

- Vitamin C: 8%

- Calcium: 2%

- Iron: 20%

Alergens

Contains: Wheat, Soy

Summary

Steak and Guinness Pie is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins. However, it is high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Steak and Guinness Pie is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with loved ones. With its tender chunks of steak, rich Guinness gravy, and flaky pastry crust, this hearty meal is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy this traditional Irish recipe with a side of mashed potatoes and a pint of Guinness for a truly authentic dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was rummaging through a dusty old cookbook that had been tucked away in the back of my kitchen cupboard for years. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on a recipe that caught my attention: Steak and Guinness Pie.

I had never heard of this dish before, but the combination of hearty steak and rich Guinness beer intrigued me. I had always been a fan of both ingredients separately, so I decided to give it a try. Little did I know that this recipe would become a staple in my culinary repertoire for years to come.

I set out to gather all the necessary ingredients for the pie. I found a beautiful cut of beef at the local butcher, along with some fresh vegetables and a can of Guinness stout. As I started to prepare the dish, the savory aroma of the meat cooking slowly in the rich, dark beer filled my kitchen.

While the pie baked in the oven, I couldn't resist taking a peek inside the cookbook to see where this recipe had come from. To my surprise, I discovered that it had been handwritten by my great-grandmother, passed down through the generations. She had learned it from a friend who had traveled to Ireland and brought back the recipe as a souvenir.

As I sat down to enjoy my first bite of Steak and Guinness Pie, I felt a connection to my ancestors and the traditions they had passed down to me. The flavors were bold and comforting, a perfect blend of tender beef, flaky pastry, and the deep, malty notes of the Guinness.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time tweaking it slightly to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add extra vegetables for a more filling meal, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a tangy kick. But no matter how I choose to personalize it, the essence of the dish remains the same – a hearty, soul-warming meal that never fails to satisfy.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am grateful for the rich tapestry of culinary influences that have shaped my cooking style. From my grandmother's traditional Italian recipes to my great-grandmother's Irish-inspired dishes, each recipe holds a special place in my heart.

And so, as I continue to cook and experiment in the kitchen, I carry on the legacy of those who came before me, passing down their recipes and stories to future generations. For me, cooking is more than just a necessity – it is a way to honor my heritage and celebrate the flavors and traditions that make each dish unique.

So the next time you find yourself searching for a new recipe to try, don't be afraid to delve into your own family history. You never know what hidden treasures you may uncover, waiting to be rediscovered and savored once more.