Commercial Meat Pie
Cooking is often a blend of tradition and innovation, and few dishes embody this harmony quite like the commercial meat pie. A staple in many homes and eateries, meat pies offer warm, savory goodness encased in a flaky crust that is hard to resist. In this post, we’ll walk you through an easy and delicious recipe to help you make perfect commercial meat pies from scratch, complete with tips, ingredient details, and guidance on achieving the best results.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Meat pies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different fillings and flavors. This recipe combines rich ground beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all enveloped in a buttery crust. The pies can be enjoyed fresh from the oven, made for a meal prep, or frozen for future cravings. Plus, they can be customized based on your preferences, making them perfect for family dinners, parties, or simply as a satisfying snack.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious commercial meat pies:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (250g) margarine
- About 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water, or as needed
For the Filling:
- 500g ground beef (about 1 pound)
- 2 medium-sized Irish potatoes, diced small
- 2 medium carrots, diced small
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 seasoning cubes
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 cup (120ml) water
- 1 tablespoon flour for thickening
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes fragrant and translucent. Then, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until the meat is browned thoroughly.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next, incorporate the diced Irish potatoes and carrots into the beef mixture. Sprinkle in the curry powder, thyme, seasoning cubes, and salt to taste. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook until the vegetables are soft, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Thicken the Filling
To thicken the filling, sprinkle the tablespoon of flour over the mixture and stir well. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the filling is adequately thickened. Once it’s ready, set the mixture aside to cool while you prepare the dough.
Step 4: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Add in the margarine, using your fingertips to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Next, crack in the egg and mix it in.
Step 5: Form the Dough
Gradually add cold water, a little at a time, mixing until a smooth and firm dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can affect the pie crust’s flakiness.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a bowl to cut out circles from the rolled-out dough. Ensure the circles are large enough to hold a generous amount of filling.
Step 7: Assemble the Pies
Place a spoonful of the cooled meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Using a fork, press the edges together to seal the pies tightly.
Step 8: Prepare for Baking
Optional: If you desire a golden-brown finish, beat an egg and brush it over the tops of each pie for a beautiful glaze.
Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the filled pies on a greased or lined baking tray and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown and crispy.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the meat pies from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm as a delicious treat for yourself, your family, or guests!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the meat pies?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked meat pies. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer. They can be baked straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
2. What other fillings can I use?
You can use various fillings like chicken, pork, vegetables, or a mix of meats and cheeses. Just ensure the filling is cooked before adding it to the dough.
3. How can I ensure my pies have a flaky crust?
To achieve flaky crusts, avoid overworking the dough and keep the ingredients cold, especially the margarine and water. Also, ensure the dough has enough resting time.
4. What should I serve with meat pies?
Meat pies pair well with side salads, mashed potatoes, or even a simple gravy for dipping. You can also serve them with a tangy tamarind sauce for some extra flavor.
5. Can I use a different type of fat for the dough?
Absolutely! While margarine works well, you can substitute it with unsalted butter or shortening for a different flavor profile in your crust.
Conclusion
Commercial meat pies are a deliciously comforting dish that anyone can master with this simple recipe. From preparing the hearty filling to crafting the perfect flaky crust, making meat pies at home is rewarding and enjoyable. Now that you have your favorite recipe, get ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills, and savor the delightful flavors of homemade meat pies!
