Golden Beef and Vegetable Pasties Recipe

There’s something truly magical about biting into a warm, flaky, golden pastry filled with hearty beef and fresh vegetables. These homemade beef and vegetable pasties are not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for lunchboxes, quick dinners, or snacks, they are an iconic dish that brings people together with their delightful aroma and taste. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a cozy meal during the colder months, these pasties are sure to impress. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients

(Makes 4 large pasties)

For the filling:

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef or finely chopped steak
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced into small cubes
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1/2 cup peas (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the pastry:

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 250g (1 cup) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold water

For the glaze:

• 1 egg, beaten

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add diced potatoes, carrots, and peas (if using). Stir well to combine.
5. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and thyme.
6. Cover the pan and let the filling simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Step 2: Make the Pastry

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Divide the dough into four equal portions, shape them into discs, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Pasties

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Roll out each portion of dough on a floured surface into a circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
3. Place a generous spoonful of the cooled filling in the center of each pastry circle.
4. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp them with a fork to seal.
5. Transfer the pasties to the prepared baking tray.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Brush each pasty with the beaten egg to create a shiny golden crust.
2. Using a sharp knife, make a small slit or two on the top of each pasty to allow steam to escape.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the pasties are golden brown and the pastry is fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the pasties to cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with a side of tangy ketchup, mustard, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

These golden beef and vegetable pasties are the epitome of comfort food. With their buttery, flaky crust and rich, savory filling, they’re a joy to make and even better to eat. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or as a weeknight dinner, these pasties are guaranteed to bring a smile to your table. Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or spices to make them your own. Happy baking!