How to Make Nigerian Meat Pie

Nigerian meat pie is a popular snack in Nigeria and other West African countries. It is a pastry stuffed with a savory filling of minced meat and vegetables, and it can be enjoyed as a snack or as a meal. In this article, we will guide you on how to make Nigerian meat pie that is delicious and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

To make Nigerian meat pie, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g plain flour
• 250g butter
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• 150ml water

For the filling, you will need:

• 500g minced meat (beef, chicken or lamb)
• 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 2 stock cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, baking powder, salt, and butter. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.
2. Crack the egg into a separate bowl, whisk lightly and add to the flour mixture.
3. Gradually add water and mix well with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together. Knead the dough on a floured surface for a few minutes until it becomes smooth.
4. Cover the dough with cling film and leave it to rest for at least 20 minutes.

2. Prepare the filling

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or pot.
2. Add the chopped onions and garlic and fry until they become translucent.
3. Add the minced meat and fry until it becomes brown.
4. Add the chopped carrots and potatoes and fry for another 5 minutes.
5. Add the thyme, curry powder, stock cubes, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Once the filling is cooked, set aside and let it cool down.

3. Assemble the meat pie

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 3-4mm.
3. Cut out circles of dough using a round cutter or a cup.
4. Spoon some of the filling into the center of each circle. Do not overfill to prevent the pie from bursting.
5. Brush some water around the edges of the circle and fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape.
6. Seal the edges by crimping them with a fork.
7. Arrange the meat pies on a greased baking tray and brush the tops with beaten egg.
8. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the pies turn golden brown.

Conclusion

Making Nigerian meat pie is not as difficult as it seems. With the right ingredients and following the instructions above, you can make delicious meat pies that your friends and family will enjoy. Experiment with different fillings and spices to create your unique recipe.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   Yes, you can use margarine instead of butter, but the texture of the pastry might be slightly different.

2. Can I freeze Nigerian meat pies?
   Yes, you can freeze Nigerian meat pies. Allow them to cool down completely before wrapping them individually with cling film or foil. When you are ready to eat them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

3. Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
   Yes, you can use any meat of your choice such as lamb, chicken, or turkey.

4. Can I add cheese to the filling?
   Yes, you can add cheese to the filling for extra flavor.

5. How long can I keep Nigerian meat pies in the refrigerator?
   You can keep Nigerian meat pies in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.