Steak and Ale Pie A Couple For The Road from www.acouplefortheroad.com
Introduction
If you're looking for a hearty and comforting meal, you can't go wrong with a steak and ale pie. This classic British dish is perfect for cold winter nights when you want something filling and warm. The tender chunks of beef, flavorful ale gravy, and buttery pastry crust make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
To make a steak and ale pie, you'll need the following ingredients: - 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour - Salt and pepper - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - 1 onion, chopped - 2 carrots, chopped - 2 celery stalks, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cups beef broth - 1 cup ale or stout - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 2 bay leaves - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed - 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. 2. In a large bowl, season the beef with flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. 3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. 4. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently. 5. Pour in the beef broth and ale or stout, stirring to combine. Add the tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. 6. Remove the bay leaves from the skillet and transfer the mixture to a 9-inch pie dish. 7. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface until it's large enough to cover the pie dish. Place the pastry over the pie dish and trim off any excess around the edges. 8. Use a fork to crimp the edges of the pastry, then cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape. 9. Brush the beaten egg over the pastry to give it a shiny finish. 10. Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy. 11. Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition
One serving of steak and ale pie (based on 8 servings) contains approximately: - Calories: 425 - Fat: 24g - Saturated Fat: 8g - Cholesterol: 86mg - Sodium: 590mg - Carbohydrates: 24g - Fiber: 2g - Sugars: 2g - Protein: 25g
Tips for Success
- Use a good quality ale or stout for the best flavor. You want something with a rich, deep flavor that will complement the beef. - Don't skip the step of browning the beef before adding it to the skillet. This helps to develop the flavor and texture of the meat. - If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it with a slurry of cornstarch and water. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water, then stir the mixture into the sauce and cook for a few more minutes until it thickens. - Make sure to let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the filling set and make it easier to cut into slices.
Variations
There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas: - Add mushrooms to the filling for an extra boost of flavor. - Use a different type of meat, such as lamb or chicken, instead of beef. - Swap out the ale or stout for red wine for a different flavor profile. - Add some grated cheese to the pastry before baking for a cheesy twist.
Conclusion
Steak and ale pie is a classic dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. With tender chunks of beef, rich ale gravy, and buttery pastry, it's a meal that's sure to satisfy. Try this recipe for a delicious and comforting dinner that's easy to make and full of flavor.
