Meat and cheese pie
Delicious Meat and Cheese Pie – A Recipe That Impresses
When it comes to impressing guests or treating yourself to a tasty meal, meat and cheese pie is definitely a winning choice. This recipe is not only easy to make but also very versatile, allowing you to put your personal touch on the filling. Whether you choose meat, spinach, or other favorite ingredients, the pie will always be a success.
Total preparation time: 3 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 2 hours and 5 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Necessary ingredients
For the dough:
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 20 g fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 250 ml lukewarm milk
- 50 g melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
For the filling:
- 400 g beef (or chicken if you prefer a lighter option)
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 100 ml water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 70 g grated cheese
For brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 3 tablespoons milk
Recipe history
Pies are a traditional dish with roots in many cultures around the world. Whether sweet or savory, they have always been a way to combine available ingredients and create a delicious and hearty meal. The meat and cheese pie we will prepare today is a version that brings together rich flavors and a crispy texture, perfect for serving at a festive meal or on a regular evening.
Preparing the starter
The first step is to prepare the starter. In a small bowl, combine 20 g of fresh yeast, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 50 ml of lukewarm milk. Mix well and let the mixture sit for 20 minutes in a warm place until it starts to bubble. This will activate the yeast, giving the dough a fluffy and airy texture.
Preparing the dough
Once the starter has risen, sift the flour into a large bowl and make a well in the center. Add the beaten egg, sugar, lukewarm milk, salt, and melted butter. Mix the ingredients with a spatula or your hands until the dough becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. If necessary, you can add a little more flour to achieve the desired consistency.
Once the dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise for 90 minutes in a draft-free place. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy and well-aerated pie.
Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, we will take care of the filling. In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, then add the crushed garlic. Finally, add the minced meat, tomato paste, and 100 ml of water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the water evaporates and the meat is well cooked. This blend of flavors will turn the pie into an explosion of tastes.
Shaping the pie
After the dough has risen, knead it gently to degas it. Then divide it into four equal parts. Take a piece of dough and roll it out on a floured work surface until you obtain a thin sheet. Use a 7 cm diameter cutter to cut circles from the dough.
On each circle, place a tablespoon of filling and sprinkle a little grated cheese on top. Fold the dough, pinching the edges to seal the filling inside. Place the pies on the baking tray, with the filled side facing up. Repeat the process until all the ingredients are used.
Letting the pies rise
After you finish shaping the pies, cover the tray with a clean towel and let them rise for 40-45 minutes. This step will ensure a fluffy and airy texture.
Baking the pies
In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk with the 3 tablespoons of milk. Brush this mixture over each pie to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Place the tray in the preheated oven at 180°C and bake the pies for 30-35 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy.
Serving and suggestions
Once the pies are ready, let them cool slightly before serving. They are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can accompany them with a fresh salad or a simple yogurt sauce to add a refreshing contrast.
Variations and practical tips
- You can experiment with various fillings, such as spinach and feta cheese, mushrooms, or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Substitute beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- If you want to add a special touch, you can sprinkle dried herbs, such as oregano or basil, into the filling.
- Make sure the filling is well-seasoned, as this will significantly influence the final taste of the pie.
Nutritional benefits
This pie is an excellent source of protein from the meat, and if you choose ingredients like vegetables or cheeses, you will also add essential vitamins. Additionally, whole wheat flour can be a healthy option, providing fiber and nutrients.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
- Yes, you can use dry yeast. In this case, use about 7 g of dry yeast and follow the same steps for preparing the starter.
2. How can I tell if the pies are baked sufficiently?
- The pies are done when they have a golden crust and sound hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom.
3. Can I freeze the pies?
- Yes, unbaked pies can be frozen. Make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.
I hope this recipe inspires you to create a delicious pie that will bring joy to both you and your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: for the dough: 500 g flour 20 g fresh yeast 1 teaspoon sugar 250 ml milk 50 g melted butter 1 teaspoon salt 1 egg for the filling: 400 g beef 1 finely chopped onion 2 cloves of garlic 100 ml water 2 tablespoons tomato paste salt pepper 70 g cheese for brushing: 1 yolk + 3 tablespoons milk
