Forfar bridies are traditional Scottish hand pies filled with a delicious mixture of minced meat, onions, and seasonings, all wrapped in a flaky pastry. Here’s a recipe to make these flavorful hand pies:
Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening, chilled and cubed
- Pinch of salt
- Cold water
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and lamb)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons beef suet (optional, but traditional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing the pastry)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pastry:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and a pinch of salt. Add the chilled butter and lard/shortening. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to rub the fats into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add cold water, a little at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and beef suet (if using) to the skillet. Cook until the onion softens.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
- Assemble the Bridies:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the pastry dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut the dough into circles, around 6-8 inches in diameter (use a small plate as a guide).
- Place a portion of the cooled filling on one side of each pastry circle, leaving space around the edges. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, creating a semi-circle shape. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork or by pinching and folding the edges together.
- Bake the Bridies:
- Place the assembled bridies onto the prepared baking sheet. Make a small slit on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the tops of the bridies with beaten egg wash.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the pastry turns golden brown.
- Serve:
- Allow the Forfar bridies to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
These Forfar birdies are delightful hand pies, perfect for a snack or as part of a meal. They can be made ahead and reheated as needed. Enjoy the authentic flavors of Scotland with these delicious savory pies!
