Australian Meat Pie Recipe: A Delicious Aussie Classic

Introduction

Australia is known for its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and, of course, its delicious cuisine. One dish that stands out as a true Aussie classic is the Australian meat pie. These savory pies have been a favorite among Aussies for generations, and today, we’re going to share with you the ultimate Australian meat pie recipe. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To get started on your culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

The Pastry

• 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 6-8 tablespoons of ice water

The Filling

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 cup of frozen peas

The Gravy

• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Let’s Get Cooking

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process.

Making the Pastry

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold, diced butter to the flour mixture.
3. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
5. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then add the diced carrots and frozen peas.
6. Simmer the mixture for 15-20 minutes until it thickens and the vegetables are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Making the Gravy

1. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until the gravy thickens.
4. Season with salt and pepper.

Assembling the Meat Pies

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a floured surface.
3. Cut out circles for the pie crusts.
4. Line your pie tins with the pastry circles.
5. Fill each pie crust with the meat filling.
6. Pour the gravy over the filling.
7. Cover each pie with another pastry circle and crimp the edges to seal.
8. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the pies are golden brown.

Australian Meat Pie Recipe

Now, let’s get to the heart of our Australian meat pie recipe—the mouthwatering filling. The combination of seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and savory gravy is what makes these pies truly irresistible.

The filling is a harmonious blend of flavors, with the tomato paste adding a subtle tanginess and the Worcestershire sauce bringing depth to the meaty goodness. The carrots and peas not only contribute to the pie’s vibrant color but also provide a delightful contrast in texture.

But the real star of the show is the flaky pastry. With the buttery, tender crust encasing the hearty filling, each bite is a satisfying explosion of taste and texture.

Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick snack or serving them at a gathering, Australian meat pies are sure to be a hit. These pies are a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Australia and a delightful addition to any meal.

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought pastry for this recipe? A: While homemade pastry is ideal, you can certainly use store-bought puff pastry if you’re short on time. Just follow the instructions for rolling out and filling the pies.

Q: Are there any variations to this recipe? A: Absolutely! Some people like to add a touch of grated cheese on top of the meat filling before sealing the pies. You can also experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste.

Q: Can I freeze these pies for later? A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pies for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover pies? A: To keep the pastry crisp, it’s best to reheat leftover pies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

Q: Can I make mini meat pies for a party? A: Absolutely! You can use smaller pie tins or a muffin tin to create adorable mini meat pies that are perfect for parties and gatherings.

Q: What side dishes go well with Australian meat pies? A: Common sides include mashed potatoes, mushy peas, or a simple green salad. The choice is yours!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Australian meat pie recipe is a true taste of Australia’s culinary heritage. With its flaky pastry, flavorful filling, and hearty gravy, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re an Aussie looking to relive a childhood classic or someone from afar wanting to explore Australian cuisine, these meat pies are a must-try. So, get cooking and enjoy a slice of Down Under goodness!