Hairy Bikers Meat And Potato Pie

Name: Hairy Bikers Meat and Potato Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: Not specified
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 500g braised steak, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp plain flour; 500ml beef stock; 2 bay leaves; 2 thyme sprigs; 750g potatoes, peeled and diced; 25g butter; 2 tbsp milk; 375g ready-rolled puff pastry; 1 egg, beaten

Dive into the hearty world of the Hairy Bikers' Meat and Potato Pie, a quintessential British dish that promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite. This classic pie, championed by the Hairy Bikers, encapsulates the essence of British comfort food, combining tender meat, soft potatoes, and flaky pastry in a dish that's perfect for chilly evenings or a family Sunday lunch.

Brief Description of the Hairy Bikers Meat and Potato Pie

The Hairy Bikers Meat and Potato Pie melds succulent braised steak with golden, soft potatoes, all encased in a golden puff pastry. This pie is not just a meal; it's a celebration of simple, hearty ingredients coming together to create a dish that's more than the sum of its parts.

Cultural or Historical Context

The meat and potato pie has deep roots in British culinary tradition, often associated with the working class in the North of England. It's a dish that speaks of comfort, resilience, and the joy found in shared meals. The Hairy Bikers, known for their down-to-earth approach and love for traditional British fare, have embraced and shared this recipe, bringing a piece of British heritage into kitchens around the world.

Ingredients for the Hairy Bikers Meat and Potato Pie

Vegetable oil - 1 tbsp
Large onion, chopped - 1
Braised steak, cut into bite-sized pieces - 500g
Plain flour - 2 tbsp
Beef stock - 500ml
Bay leaves - 2
Thyme sprigs - 2
Potatoes, peeled and diced - 750g
Butter - 25g
Milk - 2 tbsp
Ready-rolled puff pastry - 375g
Egg, beaten - 1

Preparation Instructions

Cook the Onion: Begin by softening the chopped onion in vegetable oil until golden.
Brown the Beef: Toss the beef in flour, season, and brown it in the frying pan before simmering it with beef stock, bay leaves, and thyme until tender.
Prepare the Oven and Pie Dish: Preheat your oven and get your pie dish ready.
Boil and Mash the Potatoes: Cook the potatoes until soft, then mash them with butter and milk.
Assemble the Pie: Layer the beef mixture, followed by onions and mashed potatoes in the pie dish, cover with puff pastry, and brush with beaten egg.
Bake: Cook until the pastry is golden and crisp, creating a perfect crust for the rich filling inside.

Storage and Reheating

To store, let the pie cool down before refrigerating covered for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap the pie well and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until piping hot throughout, ensuring the pastry regains its crispiness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 737 kcal
Fat: 40g
Carbohydrates: 64g
Protein: 32g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 612mg
Sugar: 6g

FAQ about the Hairy Bikers Meat and Potato Pie

Q: Can I use different types of meat? A: Yes, while the traditional recipe uses braised steak, you can substitute it with lamb, chicken, or even minced meat.

Q: Can I add other vegetables? A: Absolutely. Carrots, peas, or mushrooms make great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q: How can I make the pastry more flaky and crisp? A: Ensure your butter and water are cold to help achieve a flakier pastry. Also, brushing the pastry with egg wash will help it crisp up.

This sumptuous Hairy Bikers Meat and Potato Pie is a testament to the comfort and joy that traditional recipes bring to our tables. Whether you're a seasoned pie maker or new to the art, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire, embodying the warmth and heartiness of British cuisine.