Next Level Steak & Ale Pie

You’re about to level up your cooking game with our next level Steak & Ale Pie. We’ll guide you in choosing the best ingredients, and you’ll master the preparation steps in no time.

You’ll even discover the perfect ale to complement your pie. We’ve got serving suggestions and solutions to common problems, too.

So, are you ready to impress? Let’s dive into the art of making the ultimate Steak & Ale Pie.

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Your Steak & Ale Pie

You’ll need to consider the quality of your ingredients carefully to ensure your steak & ale pie turns out delicious. Opt for a high-quality, tender cut of beef, such as sirloin or ribeye. Fresh vegetables, like onions, carrots, and mushrooms, will add depth to your pie. Don’t skimp on the ale either, a rich, deep-flavored dark ale can elevate your pie to new heights. Lastly, buttery, flaky pie crust is a must.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide for Steak & Ale Pie

Here’s your detailed guide to preparing this mouthwatering dish, making sure you don’t miss a single step in the process.

First, you’ll need to preheat your oven to 180°C.

Now, start browning your steak in a hot pan, then set it aside.

In the same pan, sauté your onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant.

Next, add your ale and let it simmer, scraping off any bits stuck to the pan.

Add your steak back into the pan, along with carrots and thyme, then cover and simmer for an hour.

Make your pastry, roll it out and drape it over your pie dish.

Pour in the steak filling, cover with your pastry, crimp the edges, and bake until the pastry is golden brown.

Voila! You’ve just made a steak and ale pie.

The Perfect Ale for Your Steak Pie

Choosing the right beer for your dish can really enhance its flavor profile. For a steak and ale pie, you’ll want an ale that can stand up to the rich, hearty flavors of the pie. A good choice is a robust brown ale. Its malty sweetness complements the savory steak, while its slight bitterness cuts through the richness, balancing the dish.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ales, though. You might find a stout or porter adds a depth of flavor you really enjoy. Just remember, the goal is to enhance, not overpower, your steak pie’s flavors.

Serving Suggestions for Your Steak & Ale Pie

When it’s time to dish up, consider pairing your hearty steak & ale pie with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or some fresh green beans. They’re not just fillers, they add flavor, color, and nutrition to your meal.

You’ve put in the effort to make a savory pie, now treat yourself to the full dining experience. You might also want to add a dollop of rich gravy to enhance the pie’s meaty tones. If you’re looking for something lighter, a crisp, mixed green salad could do the trick.

Troubleshooting Common Steak & Ale Pie Problems

Despite your best efforts, you might run into some common issues while preparing your hearty meat and beer pie, but don’t worry, they’re easy to fix.

Perhaps your pie crust ends up too soggy or the filling is too runny. For a soggy crust, you’ve probably added too much water. Next time, use less and your crust will turn out flaky as intended.

If the filling is runny, it’s likely because you didn’t let it thicken enough before adding it to the pie. Remember, patience is key. Let it simmer a bit longer.

And if your pie isn’t browning as it should, a quick brush with an egg wash will do the trick.

Keep these tips in mind and you’ll master that steak and ale pie in no time.

NEXT LEVEL STEAK ALE PIE

You're about to level up your cooking game with our next level Steak & Ale Pie. We'll guide you in choosing the best ingredients, and you'll master the preparation steps in no time.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Servings 8

Ingredients

  

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 100 g smoked bacon lardons or smoked bacon chopped
• 1 kg beef shin cut into large chunks
• 2 onions roughly chopped
• 3 carrots peeled and cut into large chunks
• 3 tbsp plain flour
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tsp malt or red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp brown miso paste optional
• 400 ml sweet brown ale
• 600 ml beef stock made from 2 stock cubes
• few thyme sprigs stalks and leaves separated
• 2 bay leaves
• For the pastry
• 700 g plain flour plus extra for dusting
• 2 tsp English mustard powder
• 150 g lard
• 150 g butter plus extra for the dish
• 2 egg yolks beaten

Instructions

 

STEP 1

• Heat the oven to 160C/140C fan/gas 3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large casserole dish and gently fry the bacon for 5 mins until lightly browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same pan, brown the beef well in batches for 5-8 mins, adding a drizzle more oil if you need to, then set aside.

STEP 2

• Add the onions and carrots to the pan and cook on a low heat for 5 mins. Stir in the flour, then add the tomato purée, vinegar and miso, if using. Tip the beef and bacon, along with any juices, back into the pan and give it all a good stir. Pour in the ale and stock, and nestle in the thyme stalks and bay. Season generously and bring to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook in the oven for about 2 hrs or until the meat is really tender. Leave everything to cool slightly, then strain off about half the braising liquid into another container. Leave to cool completely. Can be made up to two days ahead and kept chilled in the fridge – the pie will be better if the filling is fridge-cold when added. Can also be frozen for up to three months.

STEP 3

• To make the pastry, mix the flour, mustard powder, lard and butter with a generous pinch of sea salt until completely combined, then gradually add up to 250ml ice-cold water to make a soft dough. This can be done in a food processor if you prefer. Knead the thyme leaves into the pastry, then cover and leave to rest in the fridge for at least 1 hr. Can be made up to two days ahead and kept chilled, or frozen for up to a month.

STEP 4

• Heat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7 and put a baking tray in the oven. Heavily butter a 26-28cm pie dish and dust well with flour. Cut off a third of the pastry and set aside. Roll out the remaining pastry to a thick round that will easily line the pie dish with an overhang, then line the tin. Tip in the beef mixture. You want the filling to be slightly higher than the rim of the dish. Brush the edges with egg yolk. Roll out the remaining pastry to a thick round, big enough to cover the pie, then lift onto the pie dish. Trim the edges, crimp together, then re-roll the trimmings and cut into decorative shapes, such as leaves. Brush the top with more yolk. Make a hole in the centre of the pie with a knife, and put it on the hot baking tray.

STEP 5

• Bake for 20 mins, remove, brush again with yolk, scatter with sea salt and bake for 20-25 mins until golden. Leave to rest for 10 mins while you heat up the extra gravy.

HELP SECTION

What Is the History and Origin of Steak & Ale Pie?

You’re asking about the background of steak & ale pie. This British dish has roots in Medieval times when meat pies were common. The addition of ale was a 19th century innovation, enhancing the pie’s flavor.

Are There Any Vegetarian Alternatives for Steak & Ale Pie?

Absolutely, you can create a vegetarian alternative for steak & ale pie. Instead of steak, you’d use hearty veggies like mushrooms or lentils, and a good quality ale to retain that traditional, robust flavor.

What Are the Nutritional Values of a Serving of Steak & Ale Pie?

You’re asking about the nutritional values of a steak & ale pie serving. They can vary, but generally, it’s high in protein and fat, with some carbs. However, it depends on the recipe used.

Can Steak & Ale Pie Be Frozen and Reheated? if So, What Are the Best Methods?

Yes, you can freeze and reheat steak & ale pie. Freeze it after cooling. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F until it’s hot in the middle. This ensures safety and quality.

What Kind of Dishes or Meals Can Be Paired With Steak & Ale Pie?

You can pair steak & ale pie with various dishes. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad are great options. For a traditional touch, serve it with mushy peas or a rich gravy.

Conclusion

So, you’ve mastered the next level steak & ale pie! By choosing the right ingredients, following our detailed guide, and pairing your pie with the perfect ale, you’ve created a culinary masterpiece.

Whether served at a casual gathering or a fancy dinner, this pie’s sure to impress. Don’t sweat any hiccups, they’re part of the cooking journey. Remember, practice makes perfect.

Now, go forth and share this delicious delight with the world!