Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste or ketchup
• 1/4 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the filling: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; sauté until softened. Add ground beef, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned, breaking up lumps with a spoon. Stir in tomato paste and peas, if using, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Roll and cut dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles or rectangles, depending on your preferred pie shape.
4. Assemble pies: Place a spoonful of meat filling in the center of each dough piece. Fold over to enclose, pressing edges with a fork to seal. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Let pies cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a snack, lunch, or dinner accompaniment.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Meat Pies

• Cold ingredients: Keep butter and water cold for a flakier dough.
• Don’t overfill: Too much filling can make sealing the pies tricky.
• Egg wash: Brushing with egg ensures a beautiful golden crust.
• Optional crunch: Sprinkle a little sesame seed on top before baking for texture.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or mixed vegetables.
• Spicy: Add chopped chili, cayenne, or hot sauce to the filling.
• Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the meat before sealing for a melty surprise.
• Mini pies: Make bite-sized pies for parties or appetizers.

Serving Ideas

Crispy Meat Pies are versatile and pair well with:

• A fresh green salad 🥗
• Dipping sauces like ketchup, mustard, or hot sauce 🌶️
• Soup bowls, especially tomato or vegetable soup 🍲
• Chutneys or pickles for extra flavor 🥒

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individually in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crisp.
• Reheat tips: Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can soften the crust; short bursts are fine if you’re in a hurry.