Savory Mince Pies
Savory mince pies are a comforting dish that combines a flaky crust with a delicious beef filling. These little pies make for a perfect snack or a light meal. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them wonderfully versatile for any occasion. 🥧
Why make this recipe?
Making savory mince pies is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal without much fuss. They are simple to prepare and can be easily customized with your favorite herbs and spices. Plus, they are excellent for gatherings, parties, or even just a cozy night in! 🍽️
How to prepare Savory Mince Pies
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground beef 🍖
- 1 package Puff pastry (store-bought) 🥐
- 1 Onion (optional) 🧅
- 2 cloves Garlic (optional) 🧄
- Salt 🧂
- Pepper 🧂
- Herbs (like thyme or rosemary, optional) 🌿
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 🔥
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. 🌡️
- If using, add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion becomes translucent. 🧅✨
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Stir well and remove from heat. 🍃
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut out circles to fit into your pie molds. 🍰
- Place the pastry circles into a greased muffin tin, filling each with the savory beef mixture. 👩🍳
- Cut more pastry circles to cover the tops and seal the edges. 🍥
- Make small slits in the pastry tops for steam to escape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. ⏳
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
How to serve Savory Mince Pies
Serve your savory mince pies warm with a side of ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce. They make a delightful appetizer or can be the star of your meal when paired with a fresh salad. 🥗
How to store Savory Mince Pies
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them before baking. Just bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. ❄️
Tips for preparing Savory Mince Pies
- For extra flavor, consider adding grated cheese into the meat mixture before filling the pies. 🧀
- Use a fork to press and seal the edges for a decorative touch. 🙌
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a shiny golden finish. 🥚
Variations
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. 🦃
- Add chopped vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition. 🥕
FAQs
Q: Can I make savory mince pies ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare them in advance and bake them when you’re ready to serve. Just remember to adjust the baking time if they’re chilled.
Q: Are these pies suitable for freezing?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze them both before and after baking. Just be sure to let them cool completely before storing them in a freezer-safe container.
Q: Can I use homemade pastry instead of store-bought?
A: Yes! If you prefer making your own pastry, it will work just as well. Just follow your favorite pastry recipe! 🍰