beef and onion pie recipe uk

A Hearty Beef and Onion Pie Recipe from the UK

There's something comforting about a warm, flaky pastry filled with tender beef and caramelized onions. In the UK, beef and onion pie is a beloved classic that's perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying lunch. In this recipe, we'll show you how to make a delicious beef and onion pie that's sure to become a family favorite.

The Magic of Caramelized Onions

Caramelizing onions is a crucial step in this recipe, as it brings out the sweet, deep flavor of the onions. To caramelize the onions, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add 1 large onion, thinly sliced, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Yes, you read that right – 20-25 minutes! The slow cooking process will help break down the onions, making them sweet and tender.

The Beef Filling

In a separate pan, cook 1 pound of beef stew meat in a little oil until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Add 1 cup of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the beef is tender.

The Pie Crust

For the pie crust, you'll need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 cup of cold butter. Combine the flour and salt in a bowl, then add the butter and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Gradually add 1/4 cup of cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together.

Assembling the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Spoon the beef filling into the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Top the beef with the caramelized onions, then brush the edges of the pastry with a little water. Roll out the remaining pastry to the same size as the first piece, and use it to cover the pie. Crimp the edges to seal the pie, and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

Baking the Pie

Place the pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme, and enjoy!

This beef and onion pie recipe from the UK is a hearty, comforting dish that's sure to become a family favorite. With its tender beef, caramelized onions, and flaky pastry, it's the perfect meal for a cozy night in.