Savory Meat Pie with Plain Puff Pastry

Cool Slightly: Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
Serve: Serve the meat pie warm, paired with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips:
Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the pie. This will help reduce preparation time.
Ensure Crispy Layers: For extra flaky layers, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 10 minutes after brushing with butter and folding, before rolling it out again.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as diced vegetables (like carrots or bell peppers), or use different spices like cumin or thyme to suit your taste.
Check the Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and easy to handle, but not too sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a small amount of water.
Storage:
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze the pie either before baking or after. To freeze before baking, assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. If freezing after baking, allow the pie to cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):
Calories: 450-500 kcal
Protein: 20g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800-900mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use store-bought puff pastry? Yes, if you are short on time or prefer store-bought puff pastry, you can use it for this recipe. Simply follow the filling and baking instructions, using the store-bought pastry as your dough.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! You can replace the minced meat with a vegetarian substitute such as minced soy or lentils, or use a combination of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
3. What should I serve with this pie? This pie is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple dipping sauce like sour cream or tzatziki.

4. How do I prevent the bottom of the pie from getting soggy? To avoid a soggy bottom, ensure that your filling is not too wet. Fry the meat until the liquid evaporates, and allow the filling to cool completely before adding it to the dough.

5. Can I add cheese to this recipe? Yes! For a richer flavor, you can add grated cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella) to the filling or sprinkle it over the top before baking.

Conclusion:
This Savory Meat Pie with Plain Puff Pastry is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The flaky, buttery crust combined with a flavorful minced meat filling makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is a great choice for any home cook looking to make a delicious pie from scratch. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this meat pie will surely be a hit!