The golden, flaky pastry of the Steak and Kidney Pie perfectly encases a rich and savory filling of tender beef and kidney. This hearty pie is a true British classic, offering a comforting meal that’s filling and full of flavor. With a crispy crust and a savory, well-seasoned interior, it’s the ideal dish for cozy dinners or special occasions.
The richness of the beef and kidney filling blends wonderfully with the seasoning and the golden, flaky crust. It’s a meal that evokes warmth and satisfaction with each bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy evening, this pie never fails to impress.
Full Recipe:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into cubes
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1/2 pound beef kidney, cut into cubes
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 1/2 cups beef broth
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon soy sauce
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
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1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef stew meat and beef kidney and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
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Add onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
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Sprinkle flour over the meat and vegetable mixture, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
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Gradually add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Pour the meat mixture into a pie dish and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
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Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and place it over the pie dish, trimming any excess. Crimp the edges to seal the pie.
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Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 370 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Steak and Kidney Pie: A British Culinary Tradition
Steak and Kidney Pie is a quintessential British comfort food that dates back to the 19th century. This hearty and filling dish is known for its rich, flavorful filling of tender beef steak and kidney, encased in a golden, flaky pastry. It’s a perfect meal for chilly evenings or a Sunday roast, embodying the essence of British home-cooked meals.
The History of Steak and Kidney Pie
The origins of the Steak and Kidney Pie can be traced back to the early 1800s, with its popularity increasing significantly throughout the Victorian era. Traditionally made with a mixture of beef and lamb kidneys, it quickly became a staple of British cuisine, loved for its hearty nature and satisfying qualities. Although the recipe has evolved over time, with some variations using different cuts of meat or even adding additional vegetables, the essence of the dish remains the same: a savory meat filling, enveloped in golden, crisp pastry.
Historically, the dish was popular among working-class families due to its ability to stretch ingredients. It was filling, nutritious, and could easily be made in large batches. The kidneys, often seen as a less expensive meat, were a staple in the recipe, adding both flavor and texture to the pie.
What Makes Steak and Kidney Pie So Special?
The appeal of Steak and Kidney Pie lies not only in its rich and savory flavor but also in the layers of textures that the dish offers. The combination of tender chunks of beef and the slight firmness of kidney creates an interesting contrast, while the flavorful gravy made with Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves ties it all together beautifully.
The addition of vegetables like onions and potatoes helps to balance out the richness of the meat, creating a dish that feels comforting without being overly heavy. The golden, flaky pastry crust that envelopes the filling adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the tender inside, making every bite a delightful experience.
The Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Steak and Kidney Pie
While there are variations to the recipe, the most important ingredients are the meat (typically beef and lamb or ox kidney), onions, and a rich, flavorful gravy. The pastry, which can be homemade or store-bought, is equally important as it provides the perfect contrast to the savory filling.
The beef is typically browned in a pan to bring out its rich flavor, while the kidney is carefully prepared, often soaked in milk to mellow its strong taste. The mixture is then simmered with onions, potatoes, and various seasonings, allowing the flavors to meld together.
How to Make Steak and Kidney Pie
Making a classic Steak and Kidney Pie can be a bit time-consuming but is well worth the effort. The first step is to prepare the meat, which involves cleaning and cutting the kidneys into bite-sized pieces and then browning the beef in a large pot. After the meat is browned, the onions are sautéed until soft, followed by the addition of seasonings like Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Water is then added, and the mixture is simmered until the beef is tender.
Once the meat and gravy have developed a rich flavor, potatoes are added, followed by a slurry of flour and water to thicken the sauce. The pie is assembled by placing the beef and kidney mixture in a casserole dish and covering it with rolled-out puff pastry. After sealing the edges, the pie is baked until the pastry is golden and crispy.
The Versatility of Steak and Kidney Pie
While the classic recipe calls for beef and lamb or ox kidney, there are variations to suit different preferences. Some people may opt for a meat-only filling, leaving out the kidneys altogether, while others may choose to use other cuts of beef. Vegetables such as carrots and peas can also be added for extra flavor and texture.
For those who are not fans of kidneys, you can substitute them with other offal or use a completely different filling such as ground beef or lamb. The choice of pastry is also a matter of preference: puff pastry is traditional, but shortcrust pastry can be used for a different texture.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Steak and Kidney Pie is often served as a standalone meal, but it can be complemented with a variety of side dishes. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice, offering a creamy contrast to the savory pie. Steamed vegetables, such as peas or carrots, add freshness and color to the dish.
A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the pie, providing a refreshing contrast to the heavier elements. For those who enjoy a more indulgent experience, gravy or a rich onion sauce can be served on the side for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfecting Your Steak and Kidney Pie
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Soak the Kidneys: If you’re using lamb kidneys, soaking them in milk for about 30 minutes before cooking will help to mellow their strong flavor. For ox kidneys, soaking them overnight in lightly salted water is a good idea.
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Let the Filling Cool Before Adding the Pastry: After cooking the beef and kidney mixture, let it cool slightly before covering it with the pastry. This prevents the pastry from becoming soggy and helps it stay crisp during baking.
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Brush with Egg Wash: For a golden, glossy finish, brush the top of the pastry with a beaten egg before baking. This will ensure a beautiful color and texture once it’s out of the oven.
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Use High-Quality Beef and Kidney: The quality of the meat you use can make a huge difference in the final taste of the pie. Opt for fresh, high-quality beef and kidney for the best results.
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Make Ahead: Steak and Kidney Pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. It can also be frozen for up to a month, making it an excellent dish to prepare in advance.
Conclusion: A Hearty British Delight
Steak and Kidney Pie is a comforting and satisfying dish that showcases the rich culinary tradition of Britain. Whether you’re a fan of offal or just love a good, hearty pie, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of tender beef and kidney, flavorful gravy, and golden pastry makes for a truly irresistible meal.
Perfect for a cozy dinner, a Sunday roast, or any special occasion, Steak and Kidney Pie is a dish that brings people together around the table. With its rich history and delicious flavors, it’s no wonder that this classic British pie continues to be loved by many.
