Meat pie

Meat pie - a delicacy that combines the tender texture of the pastry with the juicy meat filling, bringing together the flavors that make us feel at home. This recipe is perfect for quick lunches, family dinners, or even to impress guests. Let’s venture into making this delicious pie!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 package of puff pastry (approximately 275g)
- 500g minced meat (a mix of pork and beef, for a balanced texture and flavor)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 50ml sunflower oil or olive oil, for a richer taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup of water (approximately 250ml)

Brief history

Meat pie is a traditional dish that has traversed generations, being appreciated in various forms around the world. It represents an excellent way to use leftover meat and vegetables, transforming them into a hearty and nutritious meal. Inspired by our grandmothers' recipes, meat pie is not just a dish, but also a memory of moments spent around the table.

Preparation method

Step 1: Prepare the meat filling
Start by heating the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden, about 3-4 minutes. The caramelized onion will add sweetness and depth to the filling.

Step 2: Add the meat
Add the minced meat to the pan, stirring well to break it up. Season with salt and pepper, then continue to sauté for about 10 minutes, until the meat is well cooked and starts to take on a nice color.

Step 3: Add water
Pour a cup of water over the meat mixture and let it simmer on low heat. This step will help intensify the flavors and make the filling juicy. Cook until the water has almost completely evaporated and the mixture starts to sizzle. This detail is crucial to avoid a filling that is too wet, which could make the pastry soggy.

Step 4: Cool the filling
Once the filling is ready, turn off the heat and let it cool. This step is essential to prevent the pastry from getting steamed.

Step 5: Prepare the pastry
Meanwhile, place the package of puff pastry on a clean surface lined with baking paper. Use a rolling pin to roll out the pastry evenly until it doubles in size. Make sure not to rush, as well-rolled pastry will become flakier.

Step 6: Fill and roll
Once the filling has cooled, spread it over 3/4 of the pastry. Use the baking paper to help you roll the meat pie, being careful to tighten it well but not to compress it. Cut the roll into pieces of desired size.

Step 7: Bake the pie
Place the pie pieces on a baking tray lined with baking paper, leaving enough space between them. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and bake the pies for 10-12 minutes, until they turn golden and crispy.

Useful tips

- Choosing the meat: The mix of pork and beef provides a balanced flavor, but you can also use chicken or turkey, depending on your preferences.
- Alternative spices: You can add spices such as paprika, sweet pepper, or herbs (thyme or marjoram) to enhance the flavor of the filling.
- Varied fillings: Instead of meat, you can experiment with vegetable fillings, such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or feta cheese.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use homemade pastry?
Of course! Homemade pastry can add a unique taste and texture to your pie.

2. How can I store the pies?
Keep the pies in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

3. What can I serve with the meat pie?
A fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce with herbs would be excellent side dishes to complement this dish.

Nutritional benefits

Meat pie is a good source of protein, thanks to the meat, and contains carbohydrates from the puff pastry. Additionally, onions provide vitamins and antioxidants. However, it is best to consume this delicacy in moderation, considering the fat content in the pastry.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! Meat pie is a versatile recipe that can quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Share this recipe with friends and family and enjoy the moments spent together at the table. Enjoy your meal!