Nigerian Meat Pie Recipe: How to Make Flaky and Delicious Meat Pies with Minced Meat, Potatoes, and Carrots

Nigerian Meat Pie Recipe: How to Make Flaky and Delicious Meat Pies with Minced Meat, Potatoes, and Carrots

Introduction

Nigerian Meat Pie is a savory and delicious pastry filled with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, potatoes, carrots, and aromatic spices. With its flaky and buttery crust encasing a rich and hearty filling, this pastry is a popular snack in Nigeria and a must-have at parties, gatherings, and on-the-go meals. Meat Pie offers a perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, making it not only a tasty treat but also a nourishing one. Whether served warm with a refreshing drink or enjoyed as a quick meal, Nigerian Meat Pie is a comforting and satisfying delight.

Ingredients

For the Pastry Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cold butter (cut into cubes)
• 1/2 cup cold water (or as needed)
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)

For the Meat Filling:

• 500g minced beef (or any preferred minced meat)
• 1 cup diced potatoes (small cubes)
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2-3 stock cubes (Maggi or Knorr)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup water or beef broth

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Heat the Oil: In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
2. Add Minced Meat: Add the minced beef and cook until it turns brown, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Mix in the diced potatoes, carrots, thyme, curry powder, garlic powder, stock cubes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer with Liquid: Pour in water or beef broth and allow the mixture to cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Thicken the Filling: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the filling and stir well to thicken. Once the mixture reaches a creamy consistency, remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Pastry Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add Butter: Rub the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Form the Dough: Gradually add cold water, a little at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough.
4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Step 3: Assemble the Meat Pies

1. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a round cutter or bowl to cut out circles (about 6 inches in diameter).
2. Fill the Pastry: Spoon a generous amount of the cooled meat filling onto one half of each pastry circle.
3. Seal the Edges: Brush the edges with water, fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and press the edges with a fork to seal.
4. Apply Egg Wash: Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake the Meat Pies

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the Pies: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pies are golden brown.
3. Cool and Serve: Allow the meat pies to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm and fresh.

Nutritional Elements

• Carbohydrates: From the pastry and potatoes, providing energy.
• Protein: High-quality protein from the minced meat supports muscle growth and repair.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Carrots provide vitamin A, while potatoes contribute potassium and fiber.
• Fats: The butter in the pastry offers healthy fats that enhance satiety.

Curative Power of Ingredients

• Minced Meat: High in protein and iron, supporting blood health and muscle function.
• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which promotes healthy vision and boosts immunity.
• Potatoes: Provide complex carbohydrates and fiber, aiding digestion and providing sustained energy.
• Onions and Garlic: Contain antioxidants and antimicrobial properties that enhance the immune system.
• Thyme and Curry Powder: Aid digestion and have anti-inflammatory benefits.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Snack: Perfect for tea time or as a quick bite on the go.
• With a Drink: Pair with a cold soda, fruit juice, or a warm cup of tea.
• For Parties: Serve alongside other Nigerian snacks like Puff-Puff and Chin Chin.

Tips for Making Perfect Meat Pies

• Avoid Overfilling: Overfilled pies can burst during baking, so use a moderate amount of filling.
• Seal Edges Well: Use a fork to press the edges and prevent the filling from leaking.
• Cool the Filling: Make sure the meat filling is completely cool before using to avoid a soggy pastry.

Enjoy these golden, flaky, and delicious Nigerian Meat Pies that offer a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply as a treat to enjoy anytime!