James Martin is a name synonymous with exquisite culinary delights, and his steak pie recipe is a prime example of comfort food at its best. This ultimate steak pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a gathering of friends, or simply a cozy night in. Its hearty filling, golden crust, and rich flavors make it a dish that will please any palate. So, let’s dive into the delicious world of James Martin’s steak pie!
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What Makes a Perfect Steak Pie? 🥧
The perfect steak pie is characterized by several key elements:
- Quality Ingredients: Fresh and high-quality steak, vegetables, and pastry are crucial for achieving that rich flavor.
- Flavorful Filling: The filling should be well-seasoned and cooked slowly to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Golden Pastry: A flaky and golden crust is the crown jewel of the steak pie, providing the perfect contrast to the rich filling.
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Ingredients You Will Need 🍖
To make the ultimate James Martin steak pie, gather the following ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 kg stewing beef, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 500 ml beef stock
- 150 ml red wine
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pastry:
- 500 g puff pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Amount</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Stewing beef</td> <td>1 kg</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Plain flour</td> <td>2 tbsp</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Vegetable oil</td> <td>2 tbsp</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Large onion</td> <td>1, chopped</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Carrots</td> <td>2, diced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Garlic</td> <td>2 cloves, minced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Beef stock</td> <td>500 ml</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Red wine</td> <td>150 ml</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Worcestershire sauce</td> <td>1 tbsp</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Dried thyme</td> <td>1 tsp</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salt and pepper</td> <td>To taste</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Puff pastry</td> <td>500 g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Egg (for wash)</td> <td>1, beaten</td> </tr> </table>
Steps to Prepare the Ultimate James Martin Steak Pie 👩🍳
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by seasoning the beef chunks with salt and pepper. Dust the beef with flour, ensuring each piece is coated. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef chunks in batches, browning them on all sides. This step is essential as it helps develop a deep flavor.
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Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Once all the beef is browned, add the chopped onion, carrots, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the vegetables until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. This will create a wonderful aroma in your kitchen!
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the red wine and beef stock, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and mix in all the tasty bits. Add the Worcestershire sauce and thyme, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking will ensure the beef becomes tender and flavorful.
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Step 4: Make the Pastry
While the filling is cooking, you can prepare the puff pastry. Roll it out on a floured surface until it's about 3 mm thick. You will need enough to line your pie dish, so make sure to cut a bit more than the dish size for a nice overhang.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Once the filling is ready, allow it to cool slightly. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Pour the filling into your pie dish and cover it with the pastry, sealing the edges by crimping with a fork or your fingers. Cut a few slits in the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape.
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Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg for a lovely golden color. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed up.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Once your ultimate James Martin steak pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with some creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables for the ultimate comfort food experience!
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Tips for the Best Steak Pie 🍽️
- Rest the Meat: Allow the filling to cool before topping with pastry to prevent the base from becoming soggy.
- Season Well: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; seasoning throughout the process is key.
- Use Good Quality Wine: The better the wine, the better the flavor in your pie.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add mushrooms or herbs for extra flavor and texture.
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Final Thoughts
James Martin’s steak pie is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a dish! With tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and a flaky pastry crust, it's no wonder this recipe has gained such popularity. Serve it at your next family gathering or just to treat yourself, and you’ll see why this is a quintessential comfort food.
Enjoy this dish warm, and don’t forget to share your homemade masterpiece with friends and family! They are bound to ask for seconds! 🥰