Freshly baked Scotch pie with a golden crust.

The Best Traditional Scotch Pie Recipe: A Scottish Classic

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Scotch pies are a delicious, savory pastry filled with spiced minced meat, traditionally made with mutton or lamb. These small, handheld pies are a staple in Scottish cuisine and are perfect for lunch, picnics, or a satisfying snack. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making authentic Scotch pies from scratch, including the hot water pastry and flavorful filling.

Table of Contents

  1. What is a Scotch Pie?
    • A Scottish Culinary Tradition
    • Origins and History of the Scotch Pie
  2. Ingredients for the Perfect Scotch Pie
    • For the Pastry
    • For the Filling
  3. Making the Hot Water Pastry
    • Why Use Hot Water Pastry?
    • Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Pastry
  4. Preparing the Traditional Scotch Pie Filling
    • Choosing the Right Meat
    • Seasoning for Authentic Flavor
  5. Assembling the Scotch Pies
    • Shaping the Pie Shells
    • Filling the Pies
  6. Baking the Scotch Pies to Perfection
    • Baking Temperature and Time
  7. Serving and Enjoying Your Scotch Pie
    • Traditional Side Dishes
    • Storage and Reheating Tips
  8. FAQs About Scotch Pies
    • What is a Scotch pie made of?
    • Can I freeze Scotch pies?
    • What sauce goes best with Scotch pies?
    • What is the difference between a Scotch pie and a meat pie?
    • Can I make Scotch pies without lard?
    • Why do Scotch pies have a hole in the top?
  9. Conclusion

PART 1: What is a Scotch Pie?

A Scottish Culinary Tradition

Scotch pies are a staple in Scottish bakeries and football stadiums, known for their sturdy, crisp crust and seasoned meat filling.

Origins and History of the Scotch Pie

Scotch pies date back to the 16th century, when they were a common meal for workers and travelers due to their portability.

PART 2: Ingredients for the Perfect Scotch Pie

For the Pastry

  • 300g (2 ½ cups) plain flour
  • 75g (⅓ cup) lard
  • 50g (3 ½ tbsp) butter
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 120ml (½ cup) hot water

For the Filling

  • 250g (9 oz) minced lamb or beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp white pepper
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp allspice
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 1 tbsp beef stock

PART 3: Making the Hot Water Pastry

Rolling out hot water pastry for Scotch pies.
Preparing the perfect pastry for Scotch pies.

Why Use Hot Water Pastry?

Hot water pastry is essential for Scotch pies because it creates a firm yet flaky crust that holds its shape.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Pastry

  1. Heat the lard, butter, and water in a saucepan until melted.
  2. Mix the flour and salt in a large bowl.
  3. Pour in the hot fat mixture and stir until combined.
  4. Knead lightly until smooth, then let it cool slightly.

PART 4: Preparing the Traditional Scotch Pie Filling

Choosing the Right Meat

Lamb or beef can be used, but lamb provides a more authentic flavor.

Seasoning for Authentic Flavor

A mix of white pepper, black pepper, nutmeg, and allspice gives Scotch pies their signature taste.

PART 5: Assembling the Scotch Pies

Filling Scotch pies with spiced minced meat.
Stuffing Scotch pies with traditional minced meat filling.

Shaping the Pie Shells

  1. Roll out the pastry to 3mm (⅛ inch) thick.
  2. Cut circles large enough to fit small pie tins.
  3. Press the pastry into the tins, leaving an overhang.

Filling the Pies

  1. Spoon the seasoned meat mixture into each pastry shell.
  2. Press down gently to compact the filling.

PART 6: Baking the Scotch Pies to Perfection

Baking Temperature and Time

“For a perfect golden crust, make sure your oven is preheated to 180°C (350°F). If you love baking, you might also enjoy our Swiss Chocolate Croissants recipe, which delivers a flaky, buttery treat.”

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Brush the pie tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
  3. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the pastry is golden and crisp.

PART 7: Serving and Enjoying Your Scotch Pie

Scotch pies served with mashed potatoes and brown sauce.
Enjoy Scotch pies with classic Scottish side dishes.

“Scotch pies are great for meal prepping or quick dinners. If you’re looking for another easy-to-make meal, try our Buffalo Chicken Wrap, a spicy and delicious wrap ready in minutes.”

Traditional Side Dishes

  • Mashed potatoes and gravy
  • Baked beans or mushy peas
  • Brown sauce for dipping

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes.

PART 8: FAQs About Scotch Pies

“If you’re interested in perfecting your dough-making skills, don’t miss our Neapolitan Pizza Dough guide, which explains how to create the perfect pizza crust.”

1. What is a Scotch pie made of?

A Scotch pie consists of a hot water crust pastry filled with spiced minced lamb or beef.

2. Can I freeze Scotch pies?

Yes! Freeze baked pies for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven.

3. What sauce goes best with Scotch pies?

Brown sauce, gravy, or even ketchup are popular choices.

4. What is the difference between a Scotch pie and a meat pie?

Scotch pies have a firmer, hot water pastry crust, while regular meat pies use a softer shortcrust or puff pastry.

5. Can I make Scotch pies without lard?

Yes, but lard gives the pastry its traditional texture and firmness.

6. Why do Scotch pies have a hole in the top?

The hole allows steam to escape, preventing the pastry from becoming soggy.

PART 9: Conclusion

Scotch pies are a true Scottish classic, perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or as a quick snack on the go, their rich, savory flavor is sure to delight. Try making your own at home using this easy-to-follow recipe and bring a taste of Scotland to your kitchen!

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