Tasty Nigerian Meat Pie Recipe
Tasty Nigerian Meat Pie Recipe
Ever wondered why the Nigerian meat pie recipe is loved worldwide? It’s more than just a snack; it’s a trip through rich flavors and memories. The pie is famous for its flaky crust and savory filling. It’s not just popular in West Africa but also in Europe and South Africa.
Let’s dive into making this delightful pastry. It reminds us of family get-togethers and market stalls full of tasty smells.
Key Takeaways
- This dish is a staple among delicious Nigerian snacks.
- It features a buttery, flaky meat pie crust that holds a savory mixture.
- Nutritional information includes 220 calories per serving.
- The meat pies can be frozen for up to 3.5 months, ideal for meal prep.
- Preparation and cooking time totals about 45 minutes.
- The filling typically combines lean ground beef or turkey with vegetables like carrots and potatoes.
Introduction to Nigerian Meat Pie
Nigerian meat pie is a favorite in Nigerian cuisine, loved for its unique taste. It has a buttery crust that covers a filling of ground beef, potatoes, and carrots. The spices add warmth, making it a great snack for any event.
The African meat pie is a top snack in Nigeria. Its rich taste makes it stand out from other meat pastries. It has a subtler flavor but still satisfies with every bite.
Making this snack takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 50 minutes to cook. It’s quick and rewarding to make. People enjoy it at street kiosks or family events, showing its wide appeal.
The Origin and Popularity of Nigerian Meat Pie
The history of Nigerian meat pie goes back to the British colonial era. It brought new foods and changed local eating habits. Over time, it became a favorite snack across different cultures in Nigeria. It’s interesting how it changed from a British pasty to a dish with Nigerian flavors like minced beef, potatoes, and carrots.
Now, meat pie is a big hit in West Africa, especially at social events and parties. People love its savory taste. Vendors like Mr. Biggs and Sweet Sensations have made it even more popular with their delicious pies.
Today, the Nigerian meat pie is a mix of history and modern taste. Its flaky crust and rich filling are loved by many. It’s now seen as a key dish in Nigerian food culture.
Nigerian Meat Pie Recipe
Making a tasty Nigerian meat pie takes careful picking of ingredients. These ingredients come together to make a savory treat. I’ll share the key ingredients and talk about the calories and nutrition in this dish. Knowing the nutritional facts helps me see its value in a balanced diet.
Ingredients for the Perfect Meat Pie
For a great Nigerian meat pie, you need these ingredients for Nigerian meat pie:
- Pastry:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 sticks (16 Tbsp) cold salted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour for thickening and dusting
- Cold water as needed (about 60ml or 1/4 cup)
- Filling:
- 3 lbs lean ground beef or a vegan alternative
- 1 large chopped onion
- 3 diced Irish potatoes
- 2 diced carrots
- Chopped spring onions
- Herbs and spices including thyme, garlic, curry powder, and minced ginger
- Bouillon powder to enhance flavor
This mix of meat pie components makes a balanced taste, making every bite fulfilling.
Caloric and Nutritional Information
Looking at the Nigerian meat pie calories, each pie has about 220 calories. Here’s the detail:
| NUTRITIONAL COMPONENT | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
|
Carbohydrates |
28g |
|
Fat |
10g (6g saturated) |
|
Protein |
4g |
|
Viatamin A |
1167 IU |
|
Iron |
2mg |
|
Calcium |
18mg |
This nutritional content of meat pie shows it’s not just a tasty treat. It can also be a good part of your daily nutrition if eaten in moderation. Each ingredient adds not just flavor but also nutrition, making Nigerian meat pie a great snack choice.
How to Make Nigerian Meat Pie
Making the perfect Nigerian meat pie is all about the crust and filling. Each part is key to the mix of flavors and textures you love. Follow these steps for a delicious meat pie dough and filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Dough
Start with cold ingredients for the dough. Mix 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Add ½ teaspoon of baking powder if you want a lighter crust, but traditional recipes often skip it.
Next, cut in 1 ½ sticks of cold butter until it looks like coarse crumbs. This is important for a flaky crust. Then, add cold water slowly, mixing until the dough is easy to handle but not too tough.
Wrap the dough in plastic and chill it in the fridge for 30 to 40 minutes. This step helps the butter firm up, making the crust flaky when baked.
Creating the Delicious Filling
Surface sautéing is key for the filling. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan, then sauté one medium onion until it’s translucent. Add 1 pound of minced meat and cook until it’s browned.
Add spices like ½ teaspoon of thyme, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of curry powder, and crumble in 2 Knorr cubes for richness. Mix in chopped potatoes and carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
If needed, thicken the mixture with a slurry of flour and water. Aim for a consistency you like. Let the filling cool before filling the pies to avoid a soggy crust.
Now, it’s time to put the dough and filling together. Roll out the dough, cut circles, and fill each with meat filling. Seal the edges with flour and water or egg wash for a golden look.
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
|
All-purpose Flour
|
3 1/2 Cups
|
|
Cold Butter
|
1 1/2 Sticks (approx. 170.11grams)
|
|
Minced Beef
|
1 pound
|
|
Potato
|
1 Medium
|
|
Carrots
|
2 Medium
|
|
Onion
|
1 Medium
|
|
Vegetable Oil
|
2 Tablespoons
|
|
Knorr Cubes
|
2
|
|
Thyme |
1/2 Teaspoon |
Follow these steps to master Nigerian meat pie making. Enjoy the delicious flavors of a well-made pastry and filling!
Cooking and Serving Suggestions
Baking Nigerian meat pie can be a breeze with some best practices. These tips help ensure the pie’s texture and flavor are top-notch. By focusing on details, I can guarantee a delightful experience with every pie.
Best Practices for Baking Perfect Meat Pies
To get that perfect golden crust, I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). I line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal. Then, I fill each pie with the tasty mixture and brush them with egg wash for a golden finish.
For baking, I keep an eye on them for about 30 to 40 minutes. The crust turns a beautiful golden-brown color when it’s done.
When serving, Nigerian meat pies are best with refreshing drinks. Zobo (hibiscus tea) or chilled mango lemonade are perfect pairings. These drinks make the snack experience unforgettable.
Knowing how to prepare these pies adds joy to sharing them. Letting the dough rest in the fridge for half an hour makes it crumbly. With these tips, baking becomes a joyful activity, making delicious meat pies that everyone adores!
| ASPECT | DETAILS |
|---|---|
|
Baking Temperature
|
350 Degrees F (175 oC)
|
|
Baking Time
|
30-40 Minutes
|
|
Served With
|
Zobo (hibiscus Tea) Chilled Mango Lemonade
|
|
Dough Resting Time
|
30 Mins in the fridge
|
|
Yield
|
12 Meat Pies
|
|
Estimated Ingredients Cost
|
£10.00
|
Storing and Reheating Tips for Nigerian Meat Pie
To keep your Nigerian meat pies fresh and tasty, follow some key storage tips. First, wrap each pie in cling film tightly. Then, put them in a ziplock bag for extra protection. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3½ months without losing their quality.
When you want to eat your meat pies, thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature. This slow thawing keeps the taste and texture. After thawing, you can reheat the pie in an oven or microwave. For the oven, heat it to 150°C (Gas Mark 2) and bake until it’s warm. In the microwave, heat in short intervals to avoid making the pie soggy.
By storing and reheating your meat pies carefully, you’ll enjoy their flaky crust and savory filling anytime you want a tasty snack.
Conclusion
Making a Nigerian meat pie is more than just a recipe. It’s a way to connect with a rich cultural heritage. This recipe lets me make a perfect snack for family gatherings or casual nights in. The mix of sweet and savory flavors with a flaky crust is truly satisfying.
With the right ingredients and easy steps, making these meat pies is simple. I love trying out different fillings to show off my cooking skills. Paying attention to details like choosing the right flour and baking time makes every pie a hit.
Following the steps I’ve learned, I can make and keep these pies fresh and tasty. I encourage everyone to try making this African pastry. It’s not just food; it’s a way to enjoy Nigerian cuisine and create lasting memories.
FAQ
A Nigerian meat pie is a tasty pastry filled with minced meat, veggies, and spices. It’s wrapped in a buttery crust. People love it at parties and gatherings.
Each Nigerian meat pie has about 220 calories. It also has 28g of carbs, 10g of fat, and 4g of protein. Plus, it’s packed with Vitamin A, Iron, and Calcium.
Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap them in cling film and put them in a ziplock bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3½ months. Just thaw and reheat to enjoy.
Try using minced chicken, different veggies, or unique spices and herbs. You can make your Nigerian meat pie your own.
It started with British colonial influences. Over time, it became a favorite in Nigeria, especially as street food.
Enjoy it with zobo (hibiscus tea) or chilled mango lemonade. These drinks make the snack even better.
Keep your butter cold when mixing it with flour. Chill the dough before rolling it out. This helps the butter stay firm, making a crisp crust when baked.