Braided meat pie

Twisted Meat Pie: A Delicacy for Celebrations

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Welcome to the savory world of pies! Today, I invite you to discover my recipe for twisted meat pie, perfect for any occasion, whether you are celebrating a special event or simply want to treat your family to a delicious dish. This recipe is a tribute to all cooking enthusiasts and a way to celebrate the culinary traditions that unite us. Let's get started!

Ingredients

- 400 g puff pastry (preferably homemade, but store-bought can also be used)
- 800 g minced meat (a mix of beef and pork is ideal)
- 2 medium onions
- 2 large eggs
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- 2 tablespoons oil (sunflower or olive)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or dried if you don't have any)
- 1-2 tablespoons sesame seeds (for decoration)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Short History

Pies have a rich history, found in various forms and combinations around the world. From fruit pies to savory meat pies, they are a symbol of hospitality and comfort. The recipe we will prepare today combines tradition with innovation, featuring a crispy texture and a savory filling.

Preparation Techniques

1. Preparing the Dough: Start by thawing the puff pastry in the fridge if frozen. It is important not to let it thaw at room temperature, as it may stick.

2. Cooking the Filling: Peel and finely chop the onion. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This will give a sweet taste to the filling.

3. Adding the Meat: Add the minced meat over the onion, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the meat loses its pink color and starts to release juices. Season with salt, pepper, and finely chopped dill. Let the mixture simmer until the liquid reduces almost completely. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

4. Mixing with Eggs: Once the meat mixture has cooled, add the two beaten eggs and mix well. This step will help bind the filling and give it a pleasant texture.

5. Rolling Out the Dough: On a clean surface, sprinkle a little flour and roll out the puff pastry with a rolling pin until it reaches a thickness of about 0.5 cm. Visually divide the dough into three along the length. On the middle strip, place the meat filling.

6. Twisting: Cut the side strips of the dough into 1.5-2 cm wide strips. Then, braid the strips, alternating them to cover the meat filling. This technique not only looks spectacular but also allows for even baking.

7. Preparing for the Oven: Place the pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with the beaten egg yolk to achieve a golden and shiny crust. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the baking sheet with the pie in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pie is golden and crispy.

9. Serving: Let the pie cool slightly before cutting it. Serve warm, but it is just as delicious cold. It can be accompanied by a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce, which will perfectly complement the meat's flavor.

Practical Tips

- Veggie Option: If you want a vegetarian option, replace the meat with chopped mushrooms and add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Diverse Flavors: Experiment with different spices, such as paprika or cumin, to give the filling a more intense flavor.
- Storing the Pie: If you have leftover pie, you can keep it in the fridge, covered, for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven to regain its crispiness.

Nutritional Benefits

This twisted meat pie provides a good source of protein from the meat and eggs, while the onion and dill contribute to the intake of vitamins and minerals. Although it is a rich dish, consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use meat from another source? Of course! You can use chicken or turkey meat, depending on your preferences.
- What type of dough is best? Puff pastry provides an ideal texture, but you can also opt for pie dough if you want a denser option.
- Can I freeze the pie? Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.

Serving Suggestions

The twisted meat pie is perfect to be served alongside a glass of red wine or a pale beer, which will complement the flavors. Additionally, a fresh salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion will add a pleasant contrast and balance to the meal.

In conclusion, the twisted meat pie is not just a delicious dish, but also a way to bring family and friends together around the table. Therefore, I encourage you to try this recipe and adapt it to your own tastes. Enjoy your meal!