Nigerien-style Meat Pie

Ingredients

The Nigerien-style Meat Pie differs from the original Uruguayan Pastel de carne in terms of spices and flavor profiles. While the Uruguayan version typically uses paprika and oregano for seasoning, the Nigerien adaptation incorporates ginger, cloves, and nutmeg to add a distinct West African flair. Additionally, the Nigerien-style Meat Pie may include regional ingredients such as Scotch bonnet peppers or African basil to enhance the flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Pastel de carne, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 500g ground beef 500g ground beef
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 28g (Saturated Fat: 14g)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (Sugars: 1g)
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and 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 the dough comes together. Knead the dough lightly until smooth, then shape it into a ball. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
5. 5.
   Stir in the ginger powder, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut out circles using a round pastry cutter.
8. 8.
   Place a spoonful of the meat filling onto one half of each pastry circle. Fold the other half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal the pie.
9. 9.
   Brush the pies with beaten egg wash to give them a golden color.
10. 10.
    Place the pies on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let the pies cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. If desired, you can substitute ground beef with ground lamb or chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Ginger powder — If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, you can use freshly grated ginger instead of ginger powder.
• Pastry crust — Ensure the butter is cold and cubed to achieve a flaky crust. Handle the dough gently to prevent it from becoming tough.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a finely chopped Scotch bonnet pepper to the meat filling.
• Serve the Nigerien-style Meat Pie with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Make a larger batch of pies and freeze the extras for a quick and convenient meal option.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a mixture of cooked lentils and vegetables.

Serving advice

Serve the Nigerien-style Meat Pie warm as a main course or as a delightful snack. Accompany it with a side of hot sauce or chutney for an extra kick of flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown meat pies on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will make them even more appealing.