These Easy Scottish Forfar Bridies are delicious hand pies filled with tasty minced beef and onions. They’re flaky and perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
Trust me, once you have one, you might want to eat the whole batch! I love grabbing them on busy days—they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for the pastry’s structure. If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but be aware it may change the texture slightly.
Minced Beef: Traditional bridies use beef, but you could swap it for minced lamb or turkey for a lighter option. Veggie alternatives, like lentils or mushrooms, also work well for a vegetarian filling!
Butter: Cold unsalted butter is crucial for flaky pastry. If you want a dairy-free version, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, but the flavor may differ slightly.
Onion: A must for flavor! If you’re not a fan, finely chopped leeks or shallots can be great substitutes, providing a different but delightful taste.
What’s the Best Way to Handle Pastry Dough?
Making good pastry dough can be tricky! To keep it flaky, always start with cold ingredients. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix flour and salt first. Then add cold butter and rub it in until there are small crumbs.
- Start adding cold water a little at a time. Mix just until it forms a dough—too much mixing can make it tough.
- Once your dough comes together, wrap it tightly and chill it. This helps lock in the flakiness!
Remember, a little patience goes a long way. Enjoy the process!
Easy Scottish Forfar Bridies Hand Pies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 4 to 6 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) minced beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and an additional 30 minutes to cook, with a total of 45 minutes. Plus, don’t forget to chill the pastry for 30 minutes! You’ll have delicious hand pies ready to enjoy in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pastry:
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Add the cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This will help create a flaky pastry.
2. Combine and Chill:
Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it. Wrap the dough in cling film and chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a separate bowl, combine the minced beef, finely chopped onion, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Mix everything well so the flavors blend together nicely.
4. Preheat & Roll Out:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness. Use a round cutter to cut circles approximately 5 to 6 inches (12-15 cm) in diameter.
5. Fill the Pastry:
Take a heaping tablespoon of the meat filling and place it onto one half of each pastry circle—just enough so you can fold it over without spilling!
6. Seal the Bridies:
Brush the edge of the pastry with a little water to help seal it, then fold the pastry over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together, and use a fork to crimp the edges in place.
7. Make Steam Slits:
Cut 2 or 3 small slits on the top of each bridie to allow steam to escape while baking. This prevents them from bursting!
8. Egg Wash & Bake:
Brush each bridie with the beaten egg to give them a lovely golden finish once baked. Place them on the prepared baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done, remove the bridies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy these tasty hand pies as a savory snack or a light meal!
Enjoy your delicious homemade Scottish Forfar Bridies!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Easy Scottish Forfar Bridies
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While traditional bridies use minced beef, you can substitute it with minced lamb or turkey. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of vegetables for a hearty filling!
How Can I Make the Pastry Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pastry in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just wrap it tightly in cling film. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before rolling it out!
Can I Bake These Bridies from Frozen?
Yes, you can! If your bridies are frozen, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time, and be sure to check for doneness!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bridies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which helps maintain their flaky texture.
