Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of Ghana? Today, we're making Ghana meat pies – savory, golden-brown pastries filled with a delicious spiced meat filling. These handheld delights are perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a delightful snack. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe makes it easy to create these delicious homemade treats. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy recipe for authentic Ghanaian flavor!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup shortening (or butter) , chilled and cubed
- ¾ cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
Making the Dough:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in Shortening: Add the chilled shortening and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the shortening into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water: Gradually add the ice water, mixing lightly until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
- Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
Preparing the Filling:
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Simmer the Filling: Stir in the garlic, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, ginger, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Assembling and Baking the Meat Pies:
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛ inch thickness.
- Cut Circles: Use a 4-inch cookie cutter or a knife to cut out circles.
- Fill the Pies: Place a spoonful of the cooled meat filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Bake: Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use butter instead of shortening in the dough.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of curry powder for an extra layer of flavor.
- You can use other types of ground meat, such as chicken or lamb, in the filling.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
- Serve your Ghana meat pies warm with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, like a spicy chili sauce or a cool yogurt dip.
Nutritional Information (per pie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
These Ghana meat pies are a delicious and satisfying meal or snack, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process of making these easy recipes and the wonderful flavors of West Africa! Happy cooking!