Australian Meat Pies

Ingredients

• Ground beef (1 pound (450g))
• Puff pastry (2 sheets, thawed)
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons)
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons)
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon)
• Beef stock (1 cup)
• Frozen peas (1/2 cup)
• Carrot (1, diced)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Onion (1, chopped)
• Egg (1, beaten (for egg wash))
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Stir in the frozen peas, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. In a small bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with a splash of water to create a thick paste. Stir this paste into the beef mixture to thicken the gravy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a floured surface and line the bottom of a greased pie dish, trimming any excess pastry that hangs over the edges.
7. Pour the cooled beef mixture into the pastry-lined dish, spreading it evenly.
8. Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the beef filling. Seal the edges by crimping them together and trim any excess pastry.
9. Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
11. Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Australian Meat Pies!