Classic Nigerian Meat Pie

Ingredients

• 600 grams All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 300 grams Margarine or Cold Butter
• 150 ml Cold water
• 500 grams Ground beef
• 2 medium Potato (peeled and diced)
• 2 medium Carrot (peeled and diced)
• 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 2 cubes Seasoning cubes (Maggi/Knorr)
• 1 teaspoon each Thyme and Curry powder
• 1 large Egg (for glazing)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the filling by sautéing onions in oil, then add the ground beef and cook until browned.

2. 2

   Add diced carrots, potatoes, seasoning cubes, thyme, curry, and a splash of water; simmer until vegetables are tender.

3. 3

   Thicken the filling by stirring in a small flour-water slurry, then set aside to cool completely.

4. 4

   In a large bowl, mix flour and baking powder, then rub in the cold margarine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

5. 5

   Gradually add cold water and knead gently until a stiff dough forms; let it rest in the fridge for 20 minutes.

6. 6

   Roll out the dough to 5mm thickness and cut into circles using a cutter or a small plate.

7. 7

   Place a spoonful of cooled filling in the center, fold the dough over, and crimp the edges tightly with a fork.

8. 8

   Place pies on a lined baking tray, brush with beaten egg, and bake at 170°C (340°F) for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.