Meat and mushroom pie

Meat and mushroom pie is a hearty and satisfying dish with a savory filling and a flaky crust. Here’s a classic recipe for Meat and Mushroom Pie:

Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 1 lb (450g) beef or lamb, diced (you can use stew meat or ground meat)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button mushrooms or cremini work well)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the pie crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)
• 1 tsp salt

For assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the pie crust

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add water: Gradually add the cold water, stirring until the dough starts to come together. You may need a bit more water, but add it a tablespoon at a time.
3. Chill the dough: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the filling

1. Cook the meat: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
2. Cook the vegetables: In the same pan, add the onions, garlic, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and are tender.
3. Combine ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Return the meat to the pan, sprinkle with flour, and stir to coat.
4. Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the mixture thickens and the meat is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Allow the filling to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the pie

1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer it to the dish and trim the edges.
3. Add filling: Spoon the meat and mushroom filling into the pie crust.
4. Top with crust: Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
5. Apply egg wash: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake the pie

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool slightly: Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving suggestions:

• Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or a simple green salad.
• A bit of gravy or a dollop of sour cream can also complement the pie nicely.

Enjoy your savory and satisfying meat and mushroom pie!