Scotch Pie: The Perfect Savory Classic You’ll Love
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Scotch Pie: The Perfect Savory Classic You’ll Love
This Scotch Pie is a beloved classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With a flaky crust and rich, savory filling, it's the perfect dish for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flaky, buttery crust that complements the hearty filling
- Savory meat filling seasoned to perfection
- Ideal for a family dinner or a party appetizer
A Taste of Tradition
Scotch pie is a beloved dish that hails from Scotland, traditionally enjoyed as a hearty snack or meal. Its roots trace back to the 18th century, making it not only a delicious treat but also a part of culinary heritage. With its flaky crust and savory filling, it has become a staple at many family gatherings and celebrations. This dish embodies comfort food at its finest, bringing warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
What makes Scotch pie unique is its balance of flavors and textures. The buttery, flaky pastry perfectly encases a rich and seasoned meat filling, usually made from ground beef. The combination of the crispy crust and the tender meat creates a delightful experience that is hard to resist. Whether you are enjoying it at home or at a local bakery, each bite is a reminder of the rich traditions that influence Scottish cuisine.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Scotch pies are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a wide range of occasions. They can be served as a hearty main dish during family dinners or sliced into smaller portions for appetizers at parties. Their robust flavor profile and satisfying texture make them a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that guests will keep coming back for more. Plus, they can be easily customized with different seasonings or fillings to suit various tastes.
Additionally, Scotch pies are a great option for meal prep. You can make a large batch and freeze individual pies for later. This way, you'll always have a delicious homemade meal ready to go, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Just pop them in the oven, and you'll have a warm and comforting dish in no time!
Expert Tips for the Perfect Scotch Pie
To achieve the best Scotch pie, ensure you use cold ingredients for the pastry. This helps create a flaky texture that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling. Additionally, don’t skip the chilling step; allowing the dough to rest in the fridge develops flavor and makes it easier to roll out.
When making the filling, be sure to season it well. The combination of Worcestershire sauce and thyme adds depth to the meat, enhancing the overall flavor. Taste the filling as you go; adjusting the seasoning will ensure that it’s just right. Finally, remember to seal the edges of your pies properly to keep the filling intact during baking.
Ingredients
For the Pastry
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to prepare the pastry ahead of time to allow it to chill.
Instructions
Prepare the Pastry
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Make the Filling
In a skillet, cook the chopped onion until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool.
Assemble the Pies
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and cut into rounds. Place a round in each pie dish, fill with the meat mixture, and cover with another pastry round. Seal the edges and make small slits on top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot.
Let the pies cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
Scotch pies are delightful on their own, but they can be served with various accompaniments to elevate your meal. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pie. Additionally, consider serving them with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.
For a touch of indulgence, a dollop of homemade gravy or a sweet chili sauce can enhance the flavor even further. If you're hosting a gathering, set out a platter of Scotch pies alongside other finger foods like cheese, crackers, and pickles for a simple yet satisfying spread.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftover Scotch pies, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help maintain the crispiness of the pastry.
For longer storage, Scotch pies can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes it easy to have a delicious meal ready whenever you need it!
Variations to Try
While the traditional Scotch pie features a beef filling, feel free to experiment with different meats or even vegetarian options. Ground lamb or pork can add a unique twist to the classic recipe, while lentils or mushrooms make excellent vegetarian substitutes. Be adventurous with spices to create your own signature flavor.
Another fun variation is to incorporate different cheeses into the filling for added richness. Cheddar or blue cheese can provide a delightful contrast to the savory meat, making each bite even more satisfying. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with lamb or even a mixture of meats.
→ How can I make the pastry ahead of time?
You can prepare the pastry dough and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I freeze the Scotch Pies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled pies before baking. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
→ What can I serve with Scotch Pies?
They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, peas, or a simple salad.
Scotch Pie: The Perfect Savory Classic You’ll Love
Scotch Pie: The Perfect Savory Classic You’ll Love
Created by: Paige Sullivan
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pastry
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes.
In a skillet, cook the chopped onion until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and cut into rounds. Place a round in each pie dish, fill with the meat mixture, and cover with another pastry round. Seal the edges and make small slits on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 20g