Authentic English Ploughman’s Pie
Authentic English Ploughman’s Pie Ingredients
When it comes to making the Authentic English Ploughman’s Pie, it’s important to gather all the essential ingredients that contribute to the deliciousness of this traditional dish. From the savory filling to the buttery pastry crust, each component plays a crucial role in creating a flavorful and satisfying pie.
- 500 grams of beef, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 200 grams of cheddar cheese, grated
- 150 grams of pickles, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
To create the perfect filling for your Ploughman’s Pie, you’ll need to combine the diced beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced potatoes. Sauté them in a pan with olive oil until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender. Then, add the Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste, stirring well to coat the ingredients.
Next, it’s time to prepare the buttery pastry crust that will encase the flavorful filling. You’ll need:
- 300 grams of all-purpose flour
- 150 grams of cold butter, cubed
- A pinch of salt
- Ice-cold water
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cold butter, and salt. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie dish. Fill the dish with the savory filling, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese and chopped pickles on top, and cover with another layer of pastry. Seal the edges and cut a few slits on the top to allow steam to escape during baking.
Bake the Ploughman’s Pie in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this authentic English dish.
Authentic English Ploughman’s Pie Instructions
Follow the step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Authentic English Ploughman’s Pie. This guide will ensure that your pie turns out beautifully, with a golden crust and a flavorful filling.
1. Prepare the Filling:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of beef broth and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth.
- Pour the broth mixture into the skillet and simmer until the filling thickens.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
2. Prepare the Pastry:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of cold, cubed butter.
- Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add 4-6 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk.
- Wrap the dough disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble and Bake:
- On a floured surface, roll out one of the dough disks into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish.
- Transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish and press it gently to fit.
- Spoon the cooled filling into the pie dish, spreading it evenly.
- Roll out the second dough disk and place it on top of the filling.
- Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
- Make a few small slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top crust with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Now, you have the perfect Authentic English Ploughman’s Pie ready to be enjoyed. Serve it with a side of pickles, chutney, and a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Authentic English Ploughman’s Pie Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Ploughman’s Pie?
A Ploughman’s Pie is a traditional English dish consisting of a hearty filling encased in a buttery pastry crust. It is inspired by the classic Ploughman’s Lunch, which typically includes cheese, pickles, and bread. The pie version combines these elements into a delicious and comforting meal.
- What are the essential ingredients for an Authentic English Ploughman’s Pie?
The key ingredients for an Authentic English Ploughman’s Pie include diced beef or lamb, onions, carrots, potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, beef stock, and a combination of herbs and spices for flavor. Additionally, you’ll need unsalted butter and all-purpose flour for the pastry crust.
- Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
Absolutely! While the traditional recipe calls for beef or lamb, you can experiment with other meats such as chicken or even vegetarian options like mushrooms or lentils. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat or alternative is properly cooked.
- Can I make the pastry from scratch?
Definitely! Making the pastry from scratch can add an extra touch of authenticity to your Ploughman’s Pie. Simply combine the flour and butter until it resembles breadcrumbs, then gradually add cold water until the dough comes together. Chill it in the fridge before rolling it out and using it for your pie.
- Can I prepare the pie in advance?
Absolutely! Ploughman’s Pie can be a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare the filling and the pastry crust separately in advance, then assemble the pie just before baking. Alternatively, you can fully bake the pie and reheat it when needed. Just make sure to store it properly in the fridge.
- What can I serve with Ploughman’s Pie?
Ploughman’s Pie pairs well with a variety of sides. Some classic options include a fresh green salad, pickles, chutney, or even a side of mashed potatoes. You can also enjoy it on its own as a complete meal. Feel free to get creative with your accompaniments!
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