Best Meat Pie Recipe Featuring English Mustard

Looking for the best meat pie recipe? Fancy an authentic English pubhouse experience? Well, just a taste of the most famous of English appetizers is all you need. Paired with the zing of English mustard, this classic dish will definitely bring a taste of the British Isles to your table. 

Here we will see everything you need to know about this classic of English food. From its origin, through curious facts, all the way to the traditional recipe and the most important tips and tricks to achieve the perfect result.  

The History of Meat Pie in English Cuisine 

Nothing quite embodies the comfort and tradition of English cuisine like a well-made meat pie. Its history dates back to medieval times.  

Originally, these pies were made with a thick, hard crust known as coffins os coffyns. This ancestor of the modern pie crust served as a cooking vessel and preserved the meat inside. Over the centuries, the recipe evolved and the crust became the edible puff pastry we know and love today. 

In England, meat pies were not only a home-baked favorite in the warmth of every home, they were also a staple in English pubs and taverns. These little pastries fulfilled and satisfied travelers and locals alike. Meat pie also played an important role during the Industrial Revolution, providing a portable and nutritious meal for workers. Both flavor and nutrition, all rolled into one.  

Today, English meat pie remains a nationally beloved dish, both in casual pubs and gourmet kitchens. Its enduring popularity speaks to its versatility and deep-rooted cultural significance in the English culinary tradition. 

The Basics of The English Meat Pie 

The core of an English meat pie is usually ground beef complemented with caramelized onions. In addition, the traditional meat pie recipe has a shortcrust pastry, flaky and golden. It's the puff pastry we all love.  

The addition of English mustard gives it the final gourmet touch. This combination is a favorite of English diners and, nowadays, of all gourmet food lovers. Its simplicity and delicious sophistication transport us to the culture of England in one bite.  

Let's take a look then at some key insights to get to know this star of all English pubs better. 

What is English Mustard? 

English mustard, brought to worldwide success by the Colman's brand, is a type of mustard-based condiment known for its sharp, pungent bite.  

It is made from a combination of yellow and brown seeds and is stronger than many other mustards, as it has a low acid content. It is a variety that is not very sweet and especially pungent, so much so that it tends to rise in the nose.  

This mustard was brought to worldwide success by the Colman's brand. Still making it today. At the beginning, it only sold its powder version –which can still be bought to prepare homemade mustard–. Its growing popularity encouraged the sale of the classic ready-made mustard. 

Best Meat Pie Recipe with English Mustard 

Finally, grab pen and paper –or just save this post– because it's time for the traditional meat pie recipe. This recipe is for a single meat pie, which generally serves 4 to 6 servings, depending on the size of the portions served.  

This size is typical for a family meal or to share at a dinner party. If you need to make more pies or serve a larger group, you can double or triple the amounts of ingredients as needed. 

Ingredients: 

- 500g ground beef 

- 2 large onions, finely chopped 

- 2 tablespoons olive oil 

- 1 tablespoon English mustard 

- 2 cloves garlic, minced 

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme 

- Salt and pepper to taste 

- 2 cups beef stock 

- 2 tablespoons flour 

- 1 sheet puff pastry 

- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing) 

Instructions: 

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). 

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until caramelized. 

3. Add the ground beef and garlic, cooking until the beef is browned. 

4. Stir in the flour, thyme, salt, and pepper, ensuring the flour is fully incorporated. 

5. Gradually add the beef stock, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. 

6. Mix in the English mustard, then remove from heat and let cool slightly. 

7. Roll out the puff pastry and line a pie dish with half of it. Fill with the beef mixture. 

8. Cover with the remaining pastry, sealing the edges. Brush the top with beaten egg. 

9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. 

10. Let the pie cool slightly before serving. 

And that's it. Just follow the step-by-step and you'll make your home your own English pub.  

5 Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Meat Pie  

- Keep the pastry cold: Ensure your pastry is cold before working with it. This helps maintain its structure and flakiness during baking. If the pastry becomes too warm, it can become difficult to handle and won't bake as crisply. 

- Caramelize the onions properly: Take your time with this step, allowing the onions to slowly cook down and develop their natural sweetness. This balances the savory notes of the ground beef and the sharpness of the English mustard. 

- Adjust the mustard to taste: Don't be afraid to adjust the amount of English mustard to your preference. Reduce the amount for a milder flavor, or add more if you enjoy a stronger kick. 

- Incorporate vegetables: Consider adding a variety of vegetables, such as carrots or peas, for added texture and nutrition. This can make the pie more wholesome and satisfying. 

- Let the pie rest: Always let your pie rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the filling to set and makes slicing easier, ensuring clean and neat portions. 

Meat Pies Near Me 

Fancy a meat pie but don't feel like cooking? Finding a delicious mince pie near you is easier than you think. English taverns, English pubs, even local sports bars often include meat pies on their menus, offering a convenient way to enjoy this classic dish. An English tavern or pub is an excellent place to start. The cozy atmosphere of an English pub house enhances the experience, making it an ideal setting for enjoying this comfort food. 

And for sports fans in Atlanta, Rose & Crown combines the best of both worlds: An English pub meets the energetic magic of American sports bars.  

Finally, an English sports bar in Atlanta that offers the beloved meat pie. Enjoying this classic of English appetizers while watching your favorite game combines good food with great entertainment. It's the perfect outing for friends and family. 

Conclusion: Embrace Meat Pie for the Perfect English Pubhouse Fare 

The meat pie, enhanced with the unique flavor of English mustard, is the staple for some English pubhouse fare. Either in its homemade version or tasted directly in an authentic English tavern, this dish is a testament to the cultural heritage of English cuisine. Embrace this timeless dish and enjoy the comforting flavors of a true English classic.