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Ghanaian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and diverse dishes, each offering a unique taste of the rich culinary heritage of the country. One such beloved delicacy is the Ghanaian meat pie, a delightful pastry filled with seasoned meat and aromatics, perfect for snacking or as a main dish. The combination of flaky pastry and savory filling makes this dish a favorite for gatherings, parties, or a simple afternoon treat. In this article, we will guide you through an effortless meat pie recipe that allows you to recreate this delicious Ghanaian specialty in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pastry Dough:
– In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
– Add the chilled butter cubes and rub them into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
– Gradually add the cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
– Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Meat Filling:
– In a skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
– Add the ground beef, curry powder, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the meat until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
– Remove the skillet from the heat and let the meat filling cool.
3. Assemble the Meat Pies:
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
– Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the dough.
– Place a spoonful of the meat filling on one half of each dough circle.
– Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
– Use a fork to crimp the edges of the pastries to seal them.
4. Bake the Meat Pies:
– Place the assembled meat pies on the prepared baking sheet.
– Brush the tops of the pies with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pies are golden brown and crisp.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
– Once the meat pies are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
– Serve the Ghanaian meat pies warm as a delicious snack or meal option.
By following this simple and rewarding meat pie recipe, you can enjoy the flavors of Ghanaian cuisine right in your own home. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply craving a taste of something new, these homemade meat pies are sure to be a hit. With a flaky pastry crust and a flavorful meat filling, this Ghanaian delicacy will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Accra. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure with this effortless meat pie recipe.
