How to Prepare a Minced Beef and Onion Pie

This classic minced beef and onion pie with a puff pastry casing is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a cozy dinner. The savory filling, made from minced beef and caramelized onions, is encased in a flaky, golden puff pastry that adds a satisfying crunch with every bite. This recipe serves two people, making it an ideal choice for a simple yet delicious meal.

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Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• Minced Beef – 200 grams (lean or regular)
• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic – 1 clove, minced
• Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
• Beef Stock – 100 ml (about 1/2 cup)
• Worcestershire Sauce – 1 tablespoon
• Tomato Paste – 1 tablespoon
• All-Purpose Flour – 1 tablespoon
• Salt and Pepper – to taste
• Thyme or Rosemary – 1 teaspoon, chopped (optional)

For the Pastry:

• Puff Pastry Sheet – 1 sheet (store-bought or homemade, thawed if frozen)
• Egg – 1, beaten (for egg wash)

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Equipment Needed:

• Chef’s Knife: For chopping the onion and garlic.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for cutting the ingredients.
• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: For cooking the filling.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the filling.
• Rolling Pin: To roll out the puff pastry if needed.
• Baking Dish: A small pie dish or two individual ramekins (suitable for baking).
• Pastry Brush: For brushing the egg wash onto the pastry.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
• Fork: For crimping the edges of the pastry.

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Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 550 kcal
• Protein: 22 grams
• Carbohydrates: 32 grams
• Sugars: 3 grams
• Fat: 36 grams
• Saturated Fat: 14 grams
• Cholesterol: 115 mg
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sodium: 600 mg

(These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.)

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Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

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Preparation and Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Chop the Onion and Garlic:
  • Begin by finely chopping 1 medium onion and mincing 1 clove of garlic. Set them aside.

2. Cook the Minced Beef and Onion Filling:

• Sauté the Onion:
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Cook the Garlic and Beef:
  • Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Then, add the minced beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook the beef until it is browned all over, about 5-7 minutes.
• Make the Roux:
  • Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour over the beef and onion mixture. Stir well to coat the meat and cook for 2 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce.
• Add the Liquids:
  • Pour in 100 ml (about 1/2 cup) of beef stock, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
• Season the Filling:
  • Add salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of chopped thyme or rosemary (if using) to taste. Once the filling is well seasoned and has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Pie:

• Prepare the Puff Pastry:
  • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface if it’s not already rolled out to fit your baking dish. Cut the pastry into two portions, one slightly larger for the bottom of the pie and one for the top.
• Line the Baking Dish:
  • Place the larger portion of puff pastry into the baking dish or ramekins, pressing it gently into the corners and sides. Allow some pastry to hang over the edges.
• Add the Filling:
  • Spoon the cooled beef and onion filling into the pastry-lined dish, spreading it out evenly.
• Cover with Puff Pastry:
  • Place the smaller puff pastry portion over the top of the filling. Press the edges together to seal the pie, trimming any excess pastry. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
• Brush with Egg Wash:
  • Beat 1 egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of the pastry with a pastry brush. This will give the pie a golden, glossy finish when baked. Make a small slit in the center of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.

4. Bake the Pie:

• Bake:
  • Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up. The filling should be hot and bubbling around the edges.
• Cool Slightly:
  • Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly and make it easier to cut and serve.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the Pie:
  • Cut the pie into portions or serve the individual ramekins directly. This pie pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Enjoy:
  • Enjoy your homemade minced beef and onion pie with puff pastry. The combination of the savory filling and flaky pastry is sure to be a hit!

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Tips for Success:

• Meat Substitution: You can substitute the minced beef with ground lamb or turkey if you prefer, adjusting the seasonings accordingly.
• Pastry Handling: Keep the puff pastry cold before baking for the best results. If it gets too warm, it can become difficult to handle and may not puff up as much in the oven.
• Filling Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the filling for added flavor and texture.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Pairing: This minced beef and onion pie pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp green salad. A glass of red wine like Merlot or Shiraz complements the dish well.
• Additional Garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top just before serving can add a burst of color and freshness.

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Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pie in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps maintain the crispness of the puff pastry. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

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Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the minced beef with a mixture of lentils, chopped mushrooms, and diced vegetables for a hearty vegetarian pie.
• Spicy Twist: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Cheesy Top: Sprinkle some grated cheese over the filling before covering it with the puff pastry for a cheesy variation.

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This minced beef and onion pie with puff pastry is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich, flavorful filling combined with the light, flaky pastry creates a deliciously satisfying meal that’s sure to please. Whether you’re cooking for yourself and a loved one or just want a cozy dinner, this pie is a wonderful choice.