Christmas Eve Meat Pie

Christmas Eve Meat Pie is a beloved holiday dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Traditionally served during the festive season, this savory pie is filled with a rich mixture of ground meats, spices, and vegetables, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust. The blend of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg infuses the filling with a unique warmth and depth of flavor, making it a perfect centerpiece for a cozy Christmas Eve dinner. The golden, crisp pastry complements the hearty filling, creating a satisfying combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also evokes the nostalgia of cherished holiday memories.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground veal
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 medium potato, peeled and grated
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

For the Pastry:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the ground pork, beef, and veal to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon.
   • Stir in the beef broth and grated potato. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
   • Add the cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. Stir in the fresh parsley and breadcrumbs. Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.
2. Make the Pastry:
   • In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough starts to come together.
   • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times to form a ball. Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the rolled dough in the pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides.
   • Add the cooled meat filling to the crust, spreading it evenly.
   • Roll out the second portion of dough to cover the top of the pie. Place it over the filling and trim any excess dough. Pinch the edges together to seal, and crimp decoratively if desired.
   • Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with the beaten egg.
4. Bake:
   • Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbling.
   • Allow the pie to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy this comforting Christmas Eve Meat Pie with your loved ones, creating a memorable and heartwarming holiday experience!