There’s something uniquely satisfying about a well-crafted pastry filled with hearty, savory ingredients. These Spiced Meat and Potato Pastries bring together tender, flavorful ground meat, creamy potatoes, and a blend of warm, aromatic spices encased in a buttery, flaky dough. This dish combines the richness of classic comfort food with the elegance of spiced flavors, creating a perfect addition to your meal repertoire.

Meat pastries have been a staple in cuisines worldwide, from Cornish pasties in England to empanadas in Latin America. This recipe borrows from those culinary traditions while incorporating a distinct blend of ground coriander, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg for a bold, unexpected twist. These pastries are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a grab-and-go lunch option.

What sets this recipe apart is its combination of accessible ingredients and gourmet flair. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these pastries are a fun and rewarding project that will wow your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share them.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Filling:

• Ground pork: 500 g
• Ground beef: 500 g
• Onion (finely chopped): 150 g
• Potato (grated or diced small): 350 g
• Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
• Ground coriander: ½ tsp
• Ground cinnamon: ½ tsp
• Ground cloves: ¼ tsp
• Ground nutmeg: ¼ tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp
• Salt: 1½ tsp
• Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp

Pastry:

• All-purpose flour: 300 g
• Butter (cold, cubed): 160 g
• Egg: 1
• Water (cold): 6 tbsp
• Pinch of salt

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 50 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g

Servings

This recipe makes about 8 pastries, serving 4–6 people.

Steps to Prepare

1. Make the Pastry Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Crack the egg into the mixture and stir lightly. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
2. Stir in the ground pork and beef, breaking it apart as it browns evenly.
3. Add the spices—coriander, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, black pepper—and salt, mixing thoroughly to coat the meat.
4. Once the meat is browned, add the grated or finely diced potatoes. Cook for another 7–10 minutes until the potatoes soften slightly and absorb some of the spices. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool.

3. Assemble the Pastries

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 3 mm (⅛ inch).
3. Using a round cutter or a small bowl, cut circles about 12 cm (5 inches) in diameter.
4. Place a generous spoonful of the meat and potato filling in the center of each dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork or pinching firmly.
6. Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake the Pastries

1. Beat an egg and brush it over the tops of the pastries for a glossy finish.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and crispy.
3. Let the pastries cool slightly before serving.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Spiced meat pastries have a universal appeal. They are adaptable, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, making them a timeless dish that can be tailored to suit any culture or occasion. The flaky, buttery pastry complements the hearty filling, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The warming spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—add depth and a touch of sophistication, ensuring this recipe stands out.

These pastries also transcend mealtimes. Serve them as an appetizer at a party, enjoy them as a hearty snack, or pair them with a simple salad for a complete dinner. Their versatility ensures they’ll remain a beloved recipe in any household.

Tips for Making Perfect Pastries

1. Cold Ingredients: Keep the butter and water cold when making the pastry to ensure a flaky crust.
2. Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overstuff the pastries, as this can cause them to burst during baking.
3. Customize Spices: Adjust the spice blend to your taste or substitute with similar spices like paprika or cumin.
4. Egg Wash: Brushing the pastries with an egg wash before baking gives them a beautiful golden-brown color.
5. Uniform Size: Use a cutter or bowl to ensure all your pastries are the same size for even cooking.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these pastries vegetarian?
A: Yes! Substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of finely chopped vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

Q: Can I freeze these pastries?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze them either unbaked or baked. For unbaked pastries, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: What can I serve with these pastries?
A: These pastries pair well with a simple green salad, a side of roasted vegetables, or a dipping sauce like tzatziki, sour cream, or a tangy tomato relish.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
• Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze baked or unbaked pastries in a single layer and transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Avoid microwaving, as it may make the pastry soggy. Instead, reheat in an oven or toaster oven for the best results.

Conclusion

Spiced Meat and Potato Pastries are a labor of love that pays off in every bite. The buttery, flaky pastry pairs perfectly with the spiced, savory filling, making these pastries a crowd-pleaser that’s worth every moment of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or indulging in a weekend cooking project, these pastries offer something special for everyone.

Their timeless appeal lies in their versatility and comforting flavors. The combination of rich meats, tender potatoes, and aromatic spices is a universal favorite that transcends cuisines and cultures. These pastries invite creativity, allowing you to experiment with fillings, spices, and accompaniments to make them your own.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a dish that’s equal parts classic and creative. With these pastries, you’re not just making food—you’re crafting a memorable experience.