Hearty Homemade Beef Pie with Savory Herb Crust

Nothing embodies the warmth of home cooking quite like a Hearty Homemade Beef Pie. This classic dish can be found in many cultures, but in Zimbabwe, it takes on a delectable twist that combines rich flavors and vibrant local ingredients. With its flaky, savory herb crust enveloping tender meat and vegetables, this beef pie is the perfect dish for family gatherings, friendly get-togethers, or even a meal to inspire your business ambitions on Zimbo Menu, Zimbabwe’s local food marketplace.

Key Ingredients

500g beef, chopped into bite-size pieces

1 onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 carrots, diced

2 medium potatoes, diced

1 cup beef broth or stock

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Savory Herb Crust

250g all-purpose flour

125g cold butter, diced

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon dried parsley

3-4 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.

Add the beef to the pot, browning it on all sides for about 5 minutes.

Stir in the diced carrots and potatoes, mixing everything well.

Pour in the beef broth, adding the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Bring the mixture to a simmer, reducing the heat and allowing it to cook for about 30 minutes until the beef is tender. If the mixture is too runny, sprinkle flour gently over it and stir until thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Savory Herb Crust

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and dried parsley.

Add the diced cold butter into the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until a dough forms.

Gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Pie

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a pie dish. You should have enough crust for the bottom and a lattice top if desired.

Place the rolled-out dough into your greased pie dish, pressing it down gently. Trim off the excess edges.

Fill the crust with the cooled beef mixture, spreading it evenly.

Cover with the second layer of rolled-out crust (or a lattice pattern). Seal the edges by pinching them together and then cut a few slits on top to allow steam to escape.

Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Cooking Tips

The beef pie can be frozen both before and after baking, making it a great option for meal prep.

Experiment with local herbs and spices to reflect Zimbabwean flavors—Paprika, cumin, or chili can add a unique twist!

You can convert this recipe into mini pies or pasties, perfect for sharing or selling on the Zimbo Menu Marketplace.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for You

This Hearty Homemade Beef Pie with Savory Herb Crust is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings people together. Whether enjoyed on a quiet evening with family or as a shared dish for a lively gathering, the flavors speak of tradition yet are versatile for modern twists. Explore more meals like this that inspire not only personal enjoyment but also business opportunities. Download the Zimbo Menu app to see if the marketplace aligns with your hobbies and business needs.

For those who wish to dive deeper into culinary inspirations, consider exploring resources and ideas on websites such as Allrecipes, featuring a multitude of delicious pie recipes worldwide.