Scotch Pie

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps warmth and comfort in every bite, then this recipe for Scotch Pie is just what you need! This traditional Scottish treat brings together a delightful peppery meat filling encased in a crisp hot water crust pastry. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a delicious bite. Trust me, once you make these pies, they’ll quickly become a favorite at your table!

What makes this Scotch Pie truly special is not only its rich flavor but also the joy of creating something so traditionally comforting right in your kitchen. It’s like sharing a piece of Scotland with your loved ones, making it an ideal meal for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these delicious pies ready to bake in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a good pie! These Scotch pies are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the filling and pastry in advance, which makes dinner planning a breeze.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of spices and tender meat fills every bite with flavor that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Scotch Pie is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:

For the Pastry

• 250 g All-purpose flour
• 100 g Lard or butter (Use butter for vegetarian option)
• 100 ml Boiling water
• 1 tsp Salt (divided)

For the Filling

• 400 g Ground lamb (Or beef mix)
• 1 tsp Onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp White pepper
• 0.5 tsp Black pepper
• 0.5 tsp Ground mace
• 0.25 tsp Ground nutmeg

For Brushing

• 1 Egg (beaten)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use ground chicken or turkey if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Add vegetables: Consider mixing in some finely chopped carrots or peas into the filling for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some chili flakes or hot sauce to give the filling an extra kick.
• Make it vegetarian: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat for a hearty vegetarian filling that still packs great flavor.

How to Make Scotch Pie

Step 1: Make the Pastry

In a saucepan, heat your lard (or butter) with the boiling water until it’s just bubbling. This step is crucial; pouring this mixture over the flour creates that delightful hot water crust pastry! Once combined with half of your salt in a bowl, stir everything well, let it cool slightly, and knead until smooth. The texture should be pliable but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled out.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Now, let’s get to that flavorful filling! In a mixing bowl, combine your ground lamb (or beef), finely chopped onion, white pepper, black pepper, ground mace, ground nutmeg, and the remaining salt. Mix them thoroughly until everything is evenly combined—this ensures every bite will be packed with flavor.

Step 3: Shape the Pies

Roll out your pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Using a round cutter or a large glass, cut circles for both bases and tops of your pies. Line pie rings or muffin tins with the larger circles to create little nests for all that delicious filling!

Step 4: Fill and Seal

Spoon generous amounts of your meat filling into each pastry case—you want them nice and full! Moisten the edges of each base with a little water before placing on the tops; this helps seal everything together perfectly. Pinch or crimp those edges closed so none of that tasty goodness escapes during baking.

Step 5: Bake

Brush each pie with beaten egg—this gives them that lovely golden-brown finish as they bake. Place them in an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) for about 30–35 minutes until they’re beautifully golden brown. Your kitchen will smell divine at this point!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let those lovely pies cool briefly before removing them from their molds. Serve them hot, warm, or even at room temperature—either way, you’re bound to impress everyone who gets to enjoy these Scotch pies!

Pro Tips for Making Scotch Pie

Making Scotch pie is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your baking game to ensure a perfect pie every time!

• Choose Quality Meat: Using high-quality ground lamb or beef will enhance the flavor of your filling. Fresh meat makes all the difference in taste and texture.
• Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: The spices in the filling are crucial for that authentic flavor. Adjust the seasonings to your liking, but remember that a robust mix will give you that traditional Scotch pie taste.
• Knead the Pastry Well: A good kneading technique ensures that your hot water crust pastry is smooth and pliable. This will help create a sturdy base that holds up well during baking.
• Keep Your Ingredients Cold: If using butter for your pastry, make sure it’s cold before mixing. Cold fat helps create a flakier texture in your crust, resulting in a perfectly crisp finish.
• Let it Rest Before Baking: Allowing your filled pies to rest for about 10 minutes before baking can help everything settle into place. This small step can lead to better texture and even cooking.

How to Serve Scotch Pie

Serving Scotch pie is as joyful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this beloved dish beautifully at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that complements the savory filling.
• Dijon Mustard: A small dollop of tangy Dijon mustard on the side elevates the flavors and adds an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Colcannon: This traditional Irish dish made from mashed potatoes mixed with cabbage or kale is creamy and pairs wonderfully with the robust flavors of Scotch pie.
• Peas: Steamed green peas add a pop of color and sweetness, providing a lovely contrast to the rich meat filling.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and potatoes roasted until golden offer a comforting side that’s packed with flavor.
• Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette brings freshness and balances out the hearty nature of the pie.

With these serving suggestions, not only will your Scotch pie taste amazing, but it will also look beautiful on any table setting. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Scotch pie recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dish throughout the week. You can make these delightful pies ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment, ensuring that comfort food is always within reach!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pies to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the pies cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped pies in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• For best results, reheat from frozen. Bake directly from the freezer for about 40-45 minutes, or until heated through.
• If thawed, bake for about 20-25 minutes until warmed and crisp.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Scotch pie.

Can I use beef instead of lamb in Scotch Pie?

Absolutely! Ground beef works wonderfully as a substitute for lamb, giving you a slightly different flavor while still maintaining the classic essence of Scotch pie.

What is the best way to serve Scotch Pie?

Scotch pie is delicious served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with mashed potatoes, mushy peas, or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal!

How long does Scotch Pie last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Scotch pie will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make Scotch Pie vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the meat with a mixture of finely chopped vegetables and lentils or use plant-based ground meat alternatives to create a tasty vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this traditional Scotch pie! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and I can’t wait to hear how your pies turn out!