Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The crust is perfectly flaky and buttery.
- The filling is flavorful, hearty, and customizable.
- It’s versatile—perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a full meal.
- Easy to make ahead and store for later use.
- A beloved classic of Nigerian cuisine that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup cold, unsalted butter (cubed)
- 2 large eggs (1 for the dough, 1 for egg wash)
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 2 medium-sized potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 medium-sized carrot (diced)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 bouillon cube
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp curry powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Directions
- Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and cut it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add one beaten egg and the cold water, then mix until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. - Make the Filling
Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the diced potatoes, carrots, peas (if using), bouillon cube, thyme, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together. Allow the filling to cool. - Assemble the Meat Pies
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a large cookie cutter or a bowl to cut out circles from the dough. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a semi-circle, and seal the edges by crimping with a fork. - Bake the Pies
Arrange the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat the second egg and brush it over the tops of the pies. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pies turn golden brown.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 8-10 meat pies, depending on size.
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of your favorite veggies.
- Spice It Up: Add chili powder or finely chopped scotch bonnet peppers for a kick of heat.
- Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheese to the filling for a creamy flavor.
- Alternative Crust: Swap the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or gluten-free flour for a GF option.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store baked meat pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked or cooked meat pies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm pies in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or microwave them for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pastry dough?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry or pie crust can save time, though homemade dough yields the best flavor and texture.
2. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before use.
3. What other meats can I use?
You can use ground chicken, turkey, or lamb as substitutes for beef.
4. How do I prevent the crust from cracking?
Ensure the dough isn’t too dry, and don’t overfill the pies to avoid splitting during baking.
5. Can I skip the egg wash?
The egg wash adds a golden finish but can be replaced with milk or left out if desired.
6. What size should the dough circles be?
Aim for 4-6 inches in diameter, depending on how large you want your pies.
7. Are peas necessary?
No, peas are optional and can be omitted or replaced with other vegetables like corn.
8. Can I make mini meat pies?
Yes! Use a smaller cutter and reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes.
9. How do I know when the pies are done?
The crust should be golden brown and crisp.
10. Can I serve these with a dip?
Yes, ketchup, spicy mayo, or a tangy tomato relish pairs wonderfully with meat pies.
Conclusion
Nigerian meat pies are a delightful way to enjoy a flavorful, hearty snack with a flaky crust and savory filling. Perfect for gatherings, on-the-go meals, or simply indulging at home, this recipe is easy to follow and endlessly adaptable. Make a batch today and savor a taste of Nigerian culinary tradition!
Best Nigerian Meat Pie Recipe Made with Love
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 meat pies
Description
Discover the best Nigerian meat pie recipe made with love. These savory pastries boast a buttery, flaky crust filled with a seasoned blend of ground beef, potatoes, and carrots. Perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a hearty meal, they’re easy to make and a true delight!
Ingredients
- Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- Filling:
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 2 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 medium carrot (diced)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 bouillon cube
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp curry powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- Add cubed butter and cut into the mixture until crumbly.
- Add 1 beaten egg and cold water, mix to form dough.
- Wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling:
- Heat vegetable oil and sauté onions until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in potatoes, carrots, peas, bouillon cube, thyme, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until vegetables are tender. Cool completely.
- Assemble the Meat Pies:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Roll out dough on a floured surface and cut into circles.
- Place filling in the center, fold over, and crimp edges with a fork.
- Bake the Pies:
- Arrange pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush with egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Optional: Add chili or cheese for variation.
- Freeze uncooked pies for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Nigerian
