Nigerian Meat Pie Recipe: A Delicious West African Snack

The Nigerian meat pie is a beloved savory pastry that holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many across West Africa and beyond. With its flaky, buttery crust and flavorful minced meat and vegetable filling, this snack is perfect for any time of the day—whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a picnic, or simply craving a hearty bite.

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to make the perfect Nigerian meat pie from scratch.

A Brief History of Nigerian Meat Pie

The Nigerian meat pie is a legacy of British colonial influence, adapted from the classic British Cornish pasty. However, the Nigerian version comes with a spicy twist and a unique filling that reflects the bold flavors of West African cuisine. It’s commonly sold by street vendors, in fast food outlets, and at parties, making it one of Nigeria’s most popular snacks.

Ingredients for Nigerian Meat Pie

Here’s what you’ll need for both the dough and the filling.

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 250g (1 cup) cold unsalted butter or margarine (cut into small cubes)
• ½ cup cold water (or as needed)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 500g (1 lb) minced beef
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 medium carrot (peeled and diced)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup water or beef stock

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

1. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced beef, stir and cook until browned and no longer pink.
4. Add the diced potatoes and carrots, stir well.
5. Season with thyme, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Add ½ cup water or stock. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft.
7. Mix 1 tablespoon flour with a little water to make a slurry, then stir it into the filling to thicken.
8. Allow the filling to cool completely.

2. Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add cold butter and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a smooth, non-sticky dough forms.
4. Wrap the dough in cling film and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

3. Assemble the Meat Pies

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
3. Use a round cutter (like a bowl or lid) to cut out circles.
4. Place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape.
6. Press the edges with a fork to seal.
7. Place pies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
8. Beat the egg and brush it over the top of each pie for a golden finish.

4. Bake

1. Bake the meat pies in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Remove and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Meat Pies

• Cold ingredients make for a flakier crust. Always use cold butter and water.
• Don’t overwork the dough—mix just until combined to avoid a tough pastry.
• Make-ahead: You can prepare the filling a day ahead to save time.
• Storage: Leftover pies can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.

Serving Suggestions

Nigerian meat pies are often served with a cold soft drink or chilled fruit juice. They also make a great pairing with African tea or a side salad for a more balanced meal.

Variations You Can Try

• Chicken Meat Pie: Substitute beef with shredded chicken.
• Spicy Meat Pie: Add chili peppers or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Pie: Skip the meat and use mushrooms, peas, or lentils instead.

Conclusion

The Nigerian meat pie is more than just a snack—it’s a cultural icon and a celebration of flavor. With its buttery pastry and savory filling, it’s no wonder that this treat is loved by many. Whether you’re Nigerian or just a food enthusiast, learning to make this meat pie is a delicious way to bring a taste of Nigeria into your home.

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