Australian meat pies are a staple of Aussie cuisine, known for their flaky pastry and savory meat filling. These hand-sized delights are perfect for any meal or snack. This article will guide you through an authentic Australian meat pie recipe, bringing the flavors of Down Under to your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions
- Prepare the Pastry:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the cold water gradually, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and carrot to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are soft.
- Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, flour, salt, pepper, nutmeg, thyme, and allspice. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, until it thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Assemble the Pies:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut out circles to line the bottoms and sides of your pie tins (about 4-inch diameter) and slightly larger circles for the tops.
- Line the pie tins with the pastry circles, pressing gently to fit. Fill each pie with the cooled meat mixture.
- Cover the pies with the remaining pastry circles, pressing the edges to seal. Trim any excess pastry and crimp the edges with a fork.
- Brush the tops of the pies with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake the Pies:
- Place the pies on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve:
- Allow the pies to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with a side of tomato sauce or ketchup.
Tips for Perfect Meat Pies
- Pastry Handling: Keep the pastry cold to ensure a flaky crust.
- Filling Variations: Add peas, corn, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Sealing Edges: Ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking.
Australian meat pies, with their hearty filling and flaky pastry, are a beloved comfort food. This recipe brings a slice of Aussie tradition to your table, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy your savory adventure!
Bonus: Australian Lamingtons Recipe
To complement your meat pies, consider making traditional Australian Lamingtons.
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups desiccated coconut
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup boiling water
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a square baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a bowl, sift together flour and baking powder. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture and milk, mixing until smooth.
- Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
- Prepare Icing: In a bowl, combine powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Gradually add boiling water, stirring until smooth.
- Assemble Lamingtons: Cut the cooled cake into squares. Dip each square into the chocolate icing, then roll in desiccated coconut. Place on a wire rack to set.
Serve these delightful Lamingtons alongside your meat pies for a complete Australian culinary experience.