Steak and Ale Pie
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup (240ml) beef stock
1 cup (240ml) ale or stout
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 sheet puff pastry (or pie crust)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Make the Sauce:
Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Add tomato paste and cook for another minute.
Gradually pour in beef stock and ale, stirring to combine.
Return the beef to the pot. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
3. Prepare the Pie:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer the beef mixture to a pie dish.
Roll out the puff pastry and place it over the pie dish. Trim excess pastry and seal edges. Cut a few slits in the pastry to allow steam to escape.
Brush with beaten egg.
4. Bake:
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients:
2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1/2 cup (120ml) milk
1/4 cup (60g) butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Drain and return potatoes to the pot.
2. Mash:
Add butter and milk to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the steak and ale pie hot with a generous side of mashed potatoes.
Optional: Add steamed green vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your hearty steak and ale pie with creamy mashed potatoes!
