Beninese Spiced Meat Pies

Ingredients

While the original Haitian Patty is typically spiced with Caribbean flavors like Scotch bonnet peppers and thyme, the Beninese Spiced Meat Pies incorporate a unique blend of spices commonly found in Benin cuisine. The use of ginger, garlic, cumin, and coriander adds a distinct flavor profile to the dish, reflecting the culinary traditions of Benin. We alse have the original recipe for Haitian Patty, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat: 26g (Saturated Fat: 13g)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (Sugars: 1g)
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and cold butter. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add water to the flour mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough lightly until smooth, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a skillet, cook the ground beef or lamb over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, ground ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and cilantro. Allow the filling to cool completely.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. 6.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut out circles with a diameter of approximately 4 inches.
7. 7.
   Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal the pies.
8. 8.
   Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg wash.
9. 9.
   Bake the pies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef or lamb — Ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
• Fresh parsley and cilantro — Wash the herbs thoroughly and pat them dry before chopping to remove any dirt or impurities.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat filling.
• Serve the Beninese Spiced Meat Pies with a side of hot sauce or chutney for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a lighter crust, you can use puff pastry instead of the homemade dough.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the meat filling according to your taste preferences.
• These meat pies can be made ahead of time and frozen. Simply reheat them in the oven before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Beninese Spiced Meat Pies warm as a main course or as a delightful snack. They pair well with a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Beninese Spiced Meat Pies on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro leaves. Serve them individually or stacked in an appealing manner to showcase their golden crusts.