Fried Meat Pies
Savory fried meat pies combining seasoned ground pork and beef with fresh herbs, perfect as a hearty snack or appetizer for gatherings and casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground pork and ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped green onions, chopped bell pepper, chopped parsley, crushed garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper during the browning process.
- Once the meat is cooked and the vegetables are tender, remove from heat.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice into the meat mixture.
- Add flour to the mixture and stir until well combined. If the mixture seems too dry, add some meat stock or water.
- Use the meat mixture to fill pastry dough, then fold and seal the pies.
- Deep fry the pies until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per batch.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful meat pie, consider adding crushed garlic to the meat mixture for an extra depth of flavor. If you want a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey for the pork and beef. Additionally, using store-bought pastry dough can save time. For a crispy crust, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. You could also serve these pies alongside a fresh salad for balance.
Serving Suggestions
These fried meat pies are delicious on their own but can be paired with a tangy dipping sauce or a side of coleslaw for added crunch. They also make a great appetizer for gatherings or game days. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a hearty soup, such as Three Bean Soup, for a comforting combination.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried meat pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Meat Pies contains roughly 376 calories, with 29g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (179% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 625mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the meat pies before frying them?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked meat pies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to an airtight container. When ready to fry, cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
What type of oil is best for frying the pies?
For frying, use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil. These oils allow for a crispy exterior while maintaining a good frying temperature. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can burn during frying.
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or corn for added flavor and texture. Just ensure they are chopped finely and added during the browning process to ensure they cook through and blend well with the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).