Braided meat pie

Twisted Meat Pie - A Delicacy at Home

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Who doesn't love a warm pie with a rich filling that perfectly combines flavors? The twisted meat pie is a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also adds a touch of elegance to your table. This recipe stands out for its simplicity as well as the refinement of its taste, with deep roots in culinary tradition.

History of the Meat Pie

Over time, meat pies have been prepared in various forms and combinations, becoming a symbol of conviviality and festive meals. They are often associated with joyful family moments, served on special occasions as well as on ordinary days when we crave a warm and comforting meal.

Ingredients

- 600 g puff pastry (preferably homemade or high-quality)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 250 g tomatoes (fresh or canned, diced)
- 600 g minced meat (a mix of beef and turkey for a balanced flavor)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 eggs (one for filling, one for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (for a touch of flavor)

Preparing the Twisted Meat Pie

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

To start, take the puff pastry out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. Ensure the dough is soft enough to be rolled out. If using homemade dough, it is important to roll it out evenly to achieve a perfect pie.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling

1. Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. Peel the carrot and grate it using a fine grater to soften it quickly in the filling.

2. In a deep skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the onion and carrot and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become slightly translucent.

3. Add the minced meat and mix well, ensuring it browns evenly. Once the meat is well browned, add the tomatoes along with their juice. Let the mixture simmer over medium heat so that the juice reduces.

4. Season with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and add the wine. Let the mixture simmer until well reduced, about 10-15 minutes.

5. Once the filling is ready, remove the skillet from heat and add the oregano and chopped fresh parsley. After it cools slightly, incorporate one beaten egg and the grated Parmesan. This will add a unique flavor and bind the filling together.

Step 3: Assembling the Pie

1. Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the puff pastry with a rolling pin, only if necessary, to achieve an even thickness.

2. Divide the dough into 3 strips lengthwise, but do not cut them completely. You can make just a few light cuts with a knife to mark the strips. The top and bottom parts of the dough should be cut into strips about 2 cm wide.

3. Place the meat filling on the middle strip. Then, braid the side strips over the filling, making sure to seal the ends well to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

Step 4: Baking

1. Transfer the twisted pie to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Beat the remaining egg until frothy and, using a brush, glaze the entire surface of the pie.

2. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the pie for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

3. Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting. This will allow the filling to set.

Serving and Suggestions

The twisted meat pie can be served warm, alongside a salad of raw vegetables or a light side of steamed vegetables. For added flavor, you can include a garlic-based yogurt or sour cream sauce.

Possible Variations

To add a twist to this recipe, you can experiment with different types of meat, such as pork or chicken. You can also add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to diversify the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I make this pie vegetarian?
You can replace the meat with a mix of mushrooms and vegetables or marinated tofu.

2. Can I use pie dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, but the texture will be different. Puff pastry adds a crunchy and flaky note.

3. Can I prepare the pie in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and dough a day ahead, and then assemble and bake when you're ready.

Nutritional Benefits

This pie is a good source of protein due to the meat and eggs, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Moreover, using quality ingredients makes each serving not only delicious but also nutritious.

The twisted meat pie is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. So, don't hesitate to try this recipe and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!