Macedonian Mince and Cheese Pie

Ingredients

In the Macedonian adaptation of the Mince and Cheese Pie, we incorporate the distinct flavors and ingredients of Greek cuisine. While the British version typically uses a combination of beef and pork, the Macedonian version leans towards using lamb as the primary meat. Additionally, the Macedonian version incorporates traditional Greek spices such as oregano and thyme, which add a unique Mediterranean twist to the dish. The use of crumbled feta cheese in the filling further enhances the flavor profile, giving the pie a creamy and tangy element. We alse have the original recipe for Mince and Cheese Pie, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground lamb 500g (1.1 lb) ground lamb
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 200g (7 oz) crumbled feta cheese 200g (7 oz) crumbled feta cheese
• 1 sheet of puff pastry 1 sheet of puff pastry
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 28g (14g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 22g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the ground lamb to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. 4.
   Stir in the dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. 5.
   Remove the pan from heat and let the meat mixture cool slightly.
6. 6.
   Roll out the puff pastry sheet and line a greased pie dish with it, leaving some excess pastry hanging over the edges.
7. 7.
   Spoon the cooled meat mixture into the pastry-lined dish, spreading it evenly.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the meat mixture.
9. 9.
   Fold the excess pastry over the filling, creating a rustic, free-form crust.
10. 10.
    Brush the pastry with the beaten egg wash.
11. 11.
    Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
12. 12.
    Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Feta cheese — Opt for a high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use a combination of feta and mozzarella cheese.
• Puff pastry — Ensure that the puff pastry is thawed according to the package instructions before using it. If you prefer a homemade pastry, you can make a traditional Greek phyllo dough instead.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic in a mixture of olive oil and butter.
• Feel free to customize the spices according to your taste preferences. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a hint of warmth.
• Serve the pie with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce for a refreshing contrast.
• Leftover pie can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Simply reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or kasseri, to create your own unique twist on the recipe.

Serving advice

Serve the Macedonian Mince and Cheese Pie warm, either as a main course or as part of a mezze-style spread. Accompany it with a fresh Greek salad, pickled vegetables, or a side of roasted potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To present the pie beautifully, garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or dill. You can also add a few cherry tomatoes or olives on top for an extra touch of color and flavor.