Indulge in a classic beef mince pie topped with a light and fluffy suet crust! This hearty, comforting dish brings together rich beef mince and vegetables in a thick, flavorful gravy, all blanketed with a savory crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a make-ahead meal, this recipe combines traditional British flavors with the ease of a one-pot dish. Serve it hot from the oven and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 650 g beef mince
- 1 tbsp lard, butter, or oil (for browning)
- 2 onions, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Vegemite (optional)
- 600 ml beef stock
- Cornstarch slurry: 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening, if needed)
- 2–3 potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
For the Suet Crust Topping:
- 340 g self-raising flour
- 40 g cornflour
- 120 g shredded suet (beef or vegetable)
- 450 ml milk
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling:
- Cook the Beef Mince:
Heat lard, butter, or oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef mince, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned. - Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the diced onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic (if using) and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. - Add Seasonings and Liquids:
Sprinkle thyme over the beef mixture. Stir in the tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, and Vegemite (optional). Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Simmer with Stock and Vegetables:
Pour in the beef stock, stirring well. Add the cubed potatoes and frozen vegetables. Simmer over low heat for 15–20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and potatoes to soften. - Thicken the Gravy (If Needed):
If the gravy hasn’t thickened, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry, and slowly stir it into the beef mixture until the gravy reaches the desired thickness. Set the filling aside while preparing the topping.
2. Prepare the Suet Crust Topping:
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine self-raising flour, cornflour, shredded suet, thyme (if using), and salt. - Add Milk Gradually:
Slowly pour in milk, stirring continuously, until you have a thick, smooth batter that can be spooned over the filling.
3. Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (or 400°F). - Layer the Filling and Topping:
Pour the beef mince filling into a deep oven-safe dish. Spoon the suet crust topping evenly over the filling, ensuring it’s fully covered. - Bake the Pie:
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and has risen slightly. - Serve:
Allow the pie to rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: 490 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this recipe with other meats?
Yes, you can substitute beef mince with lamb or turkey mince for a different flavor profile.
Q2: Can I use a different crust?
If you prefer a lighter topping, try a puff pastry or mashed potato topping instead of the suet crust.
Q3: What is Vegemite, and is it essential?
Vegemite is a yeast extract that adds depth to the gravy. It’s optional but can enhance the dish’s savory flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Beef Mince Pie
- Choose Quality Beef: Opt for lean beef mince for a more refined flavor.
- Get Creative with Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary adds a fragrant touch to the filling.
- Vegetable Variations: You can add mushrooms, carrots, or peas to the filling for added texture and nutrition.
- Monitor the Crust: Check the crust after 20 minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown; tent it with foil if needed.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This pie freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake the pie in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through.
Conclusion
This Classic Beef Mince Pie with Suet Crust is a comforting, filling, and satisfying dish that captures the essence of traditional British cuisine. The rich beef filling and fluffy suet topping make every bite memorable.