Beef pasties are a beloved dish rooted in British culinary tradition, particularly popular in Cornwall where they are known as Cornish pasties. These hand-held pies, filled with a hearty mix of beef and vegetables, have been a staple for miners and workers for centuries. The convenience of a self-contained meal that could be easily transported and eaten without utensils made them ideal for those on the go. Today, beef pasties are enjoyed by many for their delicious flavor and comforting appeal.
I remember my first encounter with beef pasties during a visit to England. Strolling through a bustling market, I was drawn by the enticing aroma of freshly baked pasties. The golden, flaky pastry and the savory filling were a revelation. Inspired by this experience, I sought to recreate the dish at home, perfecting a recipe that balances the rich, savory filling with a light, crisp pastry. This recipe has become a favorite in my household, evoking fond memories of that charming market in England.
Let’s delve into the detailed steps to create these delicious Beef Pasties, ensuring each step is clear and easy to follow.
Ingredients for Beef Pasties
For the Filling:
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 celery sticks, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 potato, diced
1 tablespoon flour
1.5 cups beef stock
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/4 cup frozen peas
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pastry:
3 sheets of frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions
Step 1: Start the Filling
Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This sets the stage for sautéing the vegetables, which form the base of the filling.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrot, finely chopped celery, and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the vegetables start to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. This process releases the natural sweetness of the vegetables, enhancing the flavor of the filling.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Brown the Beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Browning the beef adds depth to the flavor and ensures the meat is fully cooked.
Incorporate the Flour: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine. The flour acts as a thickening agent, helping to create a rich, thick sauce for the filling.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Add Potatoes and Liquid Ingredients: Add the diced potato, 1.5 cups of beef stock, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the pan. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until the sauce thickens and the potato is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Peas and Cool
Incorporate Peas: Stir in 1/4 cup of frozen peas. The peas add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness to the filling.
Cool the Filling: Remove the pan from heat and let the filling cool completely before assembling the pasties. This step is crucial as it prevents the pastry from becoming soggy.
Step 5: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is ready for baking once the pasties are assembled.
Line Baking Sheets: Line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents the pasties from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 6: Assemble the Pasties
Roll Out the Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets slightly on a floured surface. Using a large cookie cutter or a bowl, cut the pastry into rounds. You should aim for rounds that are about 6 inches in diameter.
Add Filling: Spoon the cooled filling onto one half of each pastry round, leaving a small border around the edge. Be generous but avoid overfilling, as this makes sealing difficult.
Seal the Pasties: Brush the edges of the pastry with the lightly beaten egg. Fold over the pastry to cover the filling and press the edges together with a fork to seal. This creates a secure seal and a decorative edge.
Step 7: Egg Wash
Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pasties with the remaining beaten egg. This gives them a beautiful golden finish as they bake.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the Pasties: Place the pasties on the prepared baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.
Step 9: Serve
Cool Slightly: Allow the pasties to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature.
Enjoy: Serve the beef pasties with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They’re also perfect as a handheld snack or lunch on the go.
Variations & Tips
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use a mix of mushrooms, lentils, and beans for a hearty vegetarian filling.
Spice It Up: Add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a bit of heat.
Cheese Addition: Sprinkle some grated cheddar cheese over the filling before sealing the pasties for a cheesy twist.
Herbs and Spices: Experiment with adding different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika, to the filling for added flavor.
Freezing: Unbaked pasties can be frozen for up to three months. Freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
These Beef Pasties bring a piece of British tradition to your kitchen, offering a satisfying meal that combines the simplicity of baking with the rich flavors of a well-crafted filling. Perfect for any day of the week, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone seeking a taste of the UK or just a delicious, comforting meal. The combination of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and flaky pastry makes them an irresistible choice. Enjoy crafting this dish that celebrates a rich history of providing nourishment and pleasure!
