Meat pie is a cherished part of Nigerian cuisine. It’s a symbol of celebration and togetherness. This delicious pastry consists of a buttery, flaky crust enveloping a hearty filling of ground beef, onions, carrots, and sometimes potatoes, all seasoned with a blend of spices that give it a distinctive flavour. Often enjoyed at festive gatherings, family reunions, and casual get-togethers, its enticing aroma fills the air and draws everyone to the table. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, with the savoury filling perfectly complementing the delicate crust.
It’s not just the ingredients that make Nigerian Meat pie unique; the love and care go into its preparation. Each pie is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, from the precise measurements of the dough to the careful cooking of the filling. Sealing the pastry edges with a fork ensures the filling stays perfectly enclosed, allowing a delicious consistency to form as you bake. This dedication and love are what make each bite a delightful experience.
The magic of the Meat pie begins with the crust. It’s a delightful balance of flakiness and softness, achieved through carefully mixing flour, butter, and a touch of water. The dough is rolled out and moulded into small rounds to encase the flavorful filling. Each bite of the crust provides a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the savoury goodness inside. The filling is where the real story unfolds. Ground beef is sautéed until it’s tender and infused with a medley of spices, including curry powder, thyme, and a hint of pepper. Chopped onions and carrots add sweetness and texture, while a bit of potato may be included to thicken the mixture and add heartiness.
This filling is gently spooned into the dough rounds and sealed before baking, allowing the flavours to infuse into the dough as it cooks. Baking is where the Meat pie achieves its golden perfection. As it bakes, the aroma of the savoury filling wafts through the air, promising a delightful taste experience. The result is a crisp snack on the outside and warm and flavorful on the inside. Often enjoyed as a quick snack or a light meal, Meat pie is a versatile treat. It’s common at parties, street food stalls, and family gatherings, where it’s served with enthusiasm. Its rich flavours and satisfying texture make it a favourite among Nigerians and a treat for anyone who enjoys well-crafted pastries.
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Across the street, cafes and restaurants open their doors to teeming customers who throng their stores for delicious Meat pies. The enticing aroma of freshly baked pastries wafts through the air, luring passersby with the promise of a savoury treat. Inside, the atmosphere is bustling with activity. Patrons line up, eagerly awaiting their turn to sink their teeth into the golden-brown delights. Outside, a gentle breeze carries the scent of freshly baked Meat pies down the street, drawing even more customers to the bustling cafes and restaurants. The scene is one of simple pleasures, where people come together over a shared love for a delicious, homemade snack.
How to Prepare Meat Pie
Here’s a simple recipe for Meat pie that you can try at home
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- One teaspoon of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- Two large eggs
- ½ cup cold water
- 1lb ground beef
- One large potato (peeled and diced)
- One large carrot (peeled and diced)
- One small onion (finely chopped)
- ½ cup green peas
- Two tablespoons of vegetable oil
- One teaspoon thyme
- One teaspoon of curry powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- One egg (beaten)
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Filling:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasoning
Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and green peas to the skillet. Stir in the thyme, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3. Thicken the Filling
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine. Add the beef broth or water and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Pastry
Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl, combining the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Water
Beat the eggs and add them to the mixture. Gradually add the cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Then, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until it is smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 6: Roll Out Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. You can do this by using a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough. Then, place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the centre of each dough circle. Fold the dough to a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative seal.
Step 7: Bake the Dough
Place the Meat pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown. Allow the Meat pies to cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Whether enjoyed alone as a quick bite or shared with loved ones, Meat pie remains a beloved staple, a testament to the comfort and joy that good food can bring.