Traditional Golden Pie
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound (450g) beef or lamb, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
For the Pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, diced
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Prepare the Filling:
- Sauté the Meat: In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until translucent. Add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the meat to the skillet. Stir in the tomato paste and dried thyme. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture if you prefer a thicker filling. Mix well.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the beef or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked. Stir in the peas during the last 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Pastry:
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced cold butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Chill the Dough: Form the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to fit your pie dish. Place it into the dish, pressing gently to fit.
- Add Filling: Spoon the cooled filling into the pastry-lined dish.
- Top Crust: Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
- Vent and Brush: Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake the Pie:
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- Cool: Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy!
Serve your traditional golden pie warm, perhaps with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables. It’s a hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking, such as using different vegetables or adding herbs and spices you enjoy. Happy cooking!