Authentic Forfar Bridies: A Taste of Scotland

If you’re in the mood for a hearty and savory dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than Forfar Bridies. These traditional Scottish hand pies are filled with seasoned ground beef and onions, encased in a flaky pastry crust. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, Forfar Bridies are sure to delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into this classic Scottish recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons beef or vegetable stock
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1 (16 oz) package puff pastry or 1 (14 oz) package empanada baking discs, thawed
• 1 egg white

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and beef or vegetable stock. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
4. Transfer the filling to a bowl and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, stir in the cubes of cold unsalted butter.

2. Assemble the Bridies:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into circles, approximately 6-7 inches in diameter.
3. Place a spoonful of the beef filling on one half of each pastry circle, leaving a border around the edges.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork to create a decorative edge.
5. Transfer the assembled bridies to the prepared baking sheet.

3. Bake the Bridies:

1. In a small bowl, whisk the egg white until frothy. Brush the tops of the bridies with the beaten egg white.
2. Using a sharp knife, make a small slit in the top of each bridie to allow steam to escape during baking.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

1. Allow the bridies to cool slightly before serving.
2. Enjoy these delicious hand pies warm or at room temperature, with your favorite condiments or sauces on the side.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat alternative such as Beyond Meat for a vegetarian version of Forfar Bridies.
• Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.
• Cheesy Bridies: Sprinkle some grated cheddar cheese on top of the filling before sealing the pastry for an extra cheesy twist.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

To make a keto or low-carb version of Forfar Bridies, try the following modifications:

• Pastry Substitute: Use a low-carb pastry recipe made with almond flour or coconut flour instead of traditional puff pastry.
• Filling Adjustments: Replace the onion with chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for a lower-carb filling option.
• Portion Control: Make mini-sized bridies using smaller circles of pastry to reduce the carb content per serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I freeze Forfar Bridies? A: Yes, you can freeze Forfar Bridies before or after baking. To freeze unbaked bridies, assemble them as instructed, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To bake from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: What is the origin of Forfar Bridies? A: Forfar Bridies originated in Forfar, a town in Angus, Scotland. They are a traditional savory pastry that dates back to the 19th century and were originally enjoyed by local farmworkers.

Q: Can I make Forfar Bridies in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the bridies up to a day in advance. Store the assembled bridies in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, until ready to bake. Brush with egg wash and bake as directed when ready to serve.

Forfar Bridies are a beloved Scottish delicacy that combines tender ground beef, flavorful onions, and buttery pastry into a delightful hand pie. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these savory treats are sure to transport you to the rolling hills of Scotland with every bite. With their crispy pastry shell and savory filling, Forfar Bridies are a true taste of Scottish cuisine that’s perfect for any occasion