What is the recipe and method of preparing Nigerian meat pie?

Nigerian Meat Pie: A Tasty Treat

This recipe yields approximately 12 meat pies.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

* 500g beef, cubed

* 1 large onion, chopped

* 2 cloves garlic, minced

* 1 red bell pepper, chopped

* 1 green bell pepper, chopped

* 1 tbsp tomato paste

* 1 tsp curry powder

* 1/2 tsp thyme

* 1/4 tsp black pepper

* Salt to taste

* 1 tbsp vegetable oil

* 1 cup beef stock or water

* 1/2 cup chopped carrots

* 1/2 cup frozen peas

For the Pastry:

* 500g plain flour

* 1 tsp baking powder

* 1/2 tsp salt

* 250g butter, softened

* 1 egg, beaten

* 100ml cold water

* 1 egg yolk, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

* Season the beef: In a bowl, combine the beef cubes with salt, black pepper, curry powder, and thyme. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

* Sauté the vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until softened. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender.

* Brown the beef: Add the marinated beef to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.

* Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute. Add the beef stock or water, carrots, and peas. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the beef is tender.

* Cool and blend: Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Use a hand blender or food processor to blend the filling until smooth.

2. Prepare the Pastry:

* Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

* Add butter: Cut in the softened butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

* Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

* Knead and rest: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

3. Assemble and Bake:

* Roll out the pastry: Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

* Fill and shape: Cut the pastry into 12 squares. Place a generous amount of filling in the center of each square. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle, crimping the edges to seal.

* Repeat with remaining pastry: Repeat the process with the remaining pastry and filling.

* Egg wash and bake: Brush the top of each meat pie with beaten egg yolk. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips:

* You can substitute ground beef for the cubed beef if you prefer.

* For a spicier filling, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

* To avoid soggy pastry, ensure the filling is cooled completely before assembling the pies.

* Serve the meat pies hot or warm with your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy your delicious Nigerian meat pies!