Prepare the Dough:
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 250 ml of water, 250 ml of milk, and 1 tsp of salt.
Add Flour: Gradually add 800 g of flour in two stages, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water.
Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Incorporate Baking Powder: Add 1 tsp of baking powder to the dough and knead it in thoroughly.
Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Prepare the Filling:
Chop and Sauté Onions: While the dough is resting, chop 3 onions. Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté the onions until they are softened and translucent.
Cook the Meat: Add 400 g of ground meat to the pan. Brown the meat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and your preferred spices to taste. Cook until the meat is fully browned and cooked through.
Assemble and Bake the Pies:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Divide Dough: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a circle on a lightly floured surface.
Fill and Shape Pies: Place a portion of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
Egg Wash: In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp of egg yolk with 1 tbsp of milk. Brush the tops of the pies with the egg wash to give them a beautiful golden-brown finish.
Bake: Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and the crust is fully cooked.
Serve:
Cool Slightly: Let the pies cool for a few minutes after baking to set the filling.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the pies warm, with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the delicious, flaky, and savory goodness of these quick meat pies!
Important Notes:
Cooking Time: While the video mentions 10 minutes of cooking time, remember that baking takes 35-40 minutes. The total prep and cook time is likely closer to an hour.
Process Details: The video doesn’t show the full process of making the dough or browning the meat, so use your judgement or refer to another recipe for these steps if needed.
Yield: This recipe yields 4 pies.
Tips and Sharing:
Variations: Try adding different vegetables to the filling, such as diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Serving Suggestion: Pair these pies with a fresh green salad or a tangy yogurt dip for a complete meal.
Storage: Leftover pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Customization: Experiment with different meats and spices to create your own unique versions of these pies. Ground chicken or turkey are excellent alternatives.
Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze some of the uncooked pies for a quick meal on a busy day. Simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe works because it simplifies the traditional pie-making process by using a straightforward dough and a flavorful meat filling. The dough is easy to work with and doesn’t require extensive kneading or rising time, making it perfect for quick preparation. The combination of sautéed onions and seasoned ground meat creates a rich and savory filling that’s enhanced by the flaky, golden crust. This balance of flavors and textures makes these pies irresistibly delicious and ideal for any meal.
Conclusion
These quick and easy meat pies are a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. They’re perfect for family dinners, parties, or any time you want a hearty, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite. The delicious filling, combined with the tender and flaky crust, will leave everyone asking for more. Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction of making these delightful pies!
Enjoy your delicious and quick meat pies!
