Steak And Kidney Pie Recipe
History of Steak and Kidney Pie:
Steak and Kidney Pie is a classic British dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The combination of tender steak and rich kidneys encased in a golden crust is the epitome of comfort food. The origins of this dish can be traced back to medieval times when pies were a popular way to cook and preserve meat.
In the early days, pies were often made with venison or other game meats. However, as beef became more readily available, it began to feature in many pie recipes. The addition of kidneys to the filling added an extra depth of flavor and became a popular variation.
Interestingly, the inclusion of kidney in the recipe not only enhanced the taste but also added nutritional value. Kidneys are a good source of protein and several essential vitamins and minerals. Thus, Steak and Kidney Pie became a hearty and nutritious meal for many households.
Fun Facts about Steak and Kidney Pie:
1. Steak and Kidney Pie was a favorite dish among British miners during the Industrial Revolution. It provided them with a hearty and filling meal that gave them the energy they needed for their physically demanding work.
2. Traditional Steak and Kidney Pie was often made with suet pastry. Suet is the fat found around the kidneys of beef or mutton and gives the pastry a rich and crumbly texture.
3. In modern times, variations of Steak and Kidney Pie can be found all around the world. From British-style pub pies to Australian meat pies, this dish has become popular in many different culinary cultures.
Now, let's explore a recipe for Steak and Kidney Pie:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs. Steak
- 2 Kidneys
- 1 lb. Flour
- 1/2 lb. Dripping
- 1 gill Water
- Pepper and Salt
Total Cost: 81/2 d.
Time: One Hour and a Half
Instructions:
1. In a plate, mix a teaspoonful of flour with some pepper and salt. This mixture will be used to coat the meat.
2. Slice the steak into pieces approximately three inches long by two broad. Dip each piece lightly into the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Skin and slice up the kidneys. Cut the fat from the kidneys into small pieces.
4. Begin assembling the pie by rolling a piece of kidney and a piece of fat alternatively in the slices of meat. Continue layering until all the ingredients are used, creating a high pile in a dish.
5. Pour in a gill of water or stock into the dish to add moisture and flavor to the pie.
6. Prepare a short crust by following the directions given for short pastry. Wet the edge of the dish and line it with a strip of the pastry. Wet this strip again with water and cover the dish with the remaining pastry. Trim off the excess pastry from the edges.
7. For added decoration, cut a small piece out of the center of the pie and ornament it with a few leaves cut out of the pastry trimmings.
8. Brush the pastry with water to give it a glossy finish.
9. Bake the pie in a moderate oven for one hour and a half. As soon as the crust has acquired some color, cover it with a piece of paper well rubbed with dripping to prevent it from burning.
10. Once the pie is golden brown and cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Steak and Kidney Pie!
Similar Recipe Dishes:
1. Beef and Ale Pie: Instead of kidneys, this pie combines tender pieces of beef with ale for a rich and flavorful filling. It is often served with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
2. Chicken and Mushroom Pie: This variation swaps out the beef for chicken and adds mushrooms to the filling. It is a lighter option but still provides the same comforting flavors.
3. Vegetarian Mushroom and Stilton Pie: For those who prefer a meat-free option, this pie features a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and Stilton cheese, encased in a crisp pastry crust. It is perfect for vegetarians and mushroom lovers alike.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious pie variations you can explore. Whether you prefer classic steak and kidney or want to try something different, there is a pie for every taste and occasion.
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