Malawian-style Spiced Meat Pie

Ingredients

While the original Svetinikolska pastrmajlija from Macedonian cuisine is a flatbread topped with meat and spices, this Malawian adaptation transforms the dish into a savory meat pie. The Malawian version incorporates a flaky pastry crust and a unique blend of spices that are characteristic of Malawian cuisine, giving it a distinct flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Svetinikolska pastrmajlija, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water

Nutrition

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

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. 3.
   Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. 4.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish.
8. 8.
   Transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish and press it gently into the bottom and sides.
9. 9.
   Spoon the spiced meat filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
10. 10.
    Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into strips to create a lattice pattern on top of the pie.
11. 11.
    Bake the Malawian-style Spiced Meat Pie in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
12. 12.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute it with ground chicken or turkey if desired.
• Cumin — Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them will enhance their flavor.
• Paprika — Opt for smoked paprika to add a smoky depth to the dish.
• Pastry crust — Ensure the butter is cold and handle the dough as little as possible to achieve a flaky crust.
• Ice water — Use ice-cold water to keep the pastry dough firm and prevent it from becoming too sticky.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add chopped chili peppers to the meat filling.
• Serve the Malawian-style Spiced Meat Pie with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Make the pie in advance and reheat it in the oven for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of the meat filling.
• Leftover pie can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day.

Serving advice

Slice the Malawian-style Spiced Meat Pie into wedges and serve it warm. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Place the pie on a decorative serving platter or wooden board. Dust the top with a sprinkle of paprika or cumin for an attractive finishing touch.