Forfar Bridies are traditional Scottish meat pastries, originating from Forfar in Angus. These savory pies are made with a rich pastry dough filled with seasoned beef and onions, making them a comforting and hearty meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, these hand-held pastries are delicious hot or cold!
📋 Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed 🧈
- 1/2 cup cold water 💧
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or minced steak 🥩
- 1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 1 tablespoon butter 🧈
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 🌿
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional) 🌿
- 1 tablespoon beef broth or water 💧
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten 🥚
📝 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pastry Dough:
- Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in the butter:
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the water:
- Gradually add the cold water and mix until a dough forms. Knead lightly until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling:
- Sauté the onions:
- In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Stir in the beef broth or water to moisten the filling. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
3. Assemble the Bridies:
- Roll out the dough:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the dough into 6-inch circles (use a small plate as a guide if needed).
- Fill the pastry:
- Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the beef filling onto one side of each pastry circle. Fold the dough over to create a semi-circle and press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they stay sealed.
- Egg wash:
- Brush the tops of the bridies with the beaten egg to give them a golden crust.
4. Bake the Bridies:
- Bake:
- Place the bridies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
5. Serve:
- Cool and serve:
- Allow the bridies to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed hot or cold and are often served with a side salad or mashed potatoes.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 30 minutes
⏱️ Chilling Time: 30 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 25 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 6 bridies
🔥 Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcal per bridie
These Forfar Bridies are a classic Scottish treat with a rich, flaky crust and savory beef filling. They make a perfect meal for picnics, lunchboxes, or a cozy dinner. 🥟🥩