Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 500g minced beef
• 2 tbsp plain flour
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 sheets shortcrust pastry
• 2 sheets puff pastry
• 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Add the minced beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.

Step 2: Thicken the Filling

Sprinkle the plain flour over the beef and stir to combine. Gradually add the beef stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Pies

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line greased pie tins with shortcrust pastry, trimming the edges. Fill each tin with the beef mixture. Cover with puff pastry, sealing the edges with a fork. Cut a small slit in the top for steam to escape and brush with beaten egg.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the pies in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crisp. Serve hot with tomato sauce (ketchup) if desired.

Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine to the filling. You can also make mini pies for parties by using muffin tins!