Australian Meat Pies

 

Australian Meat Pies 

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Ingredients (for 6 small pies):

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (500g) ground beef or diced beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup beef stock
• 1/2 cup tomato paste or ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)

For the Pastry:

• 2 sheets of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 sheets of shortcrust pastry (for the base)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sauté until softened.
2. Add the ground or diced beef and cook until browned.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute to coat the meat.
4. Add beef stock, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and seasonings.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.

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Step 2: Prepare the Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a muffin tin or individual pie tins. Cut circles from the shortcrust pastry to fit the base and sides of the tins.
3. Line the tins with the shortcrust pastry, pressing gently to shape.

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Step 3: Assemble the Pies

1. Spoon the cooled beef filling into each pastry shell, leaving a little space at the top.
2. Cut circles from the puff pastry for the lids. Place them over the filling and seal the edges by pinching or pressing with a fork.
3. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.

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Step 4: Bake

1. Place the pies in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and flaky.
2. Remove from the oven and let the pies cool slightly before serving.

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Serving Suggestions:

Serve the pies with tomato sauce (ketchup) on the side and enjoy with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes. Perfect for any meal or snack!