Try serving with this delicious Traditional Colcannon recipe! As soon as the weather changes, so does the food we crave. For me, a cold nip in the air makes me think about warming dishes like this stunning Steak and Ale Pie! A good steak pie has tender meat cooked in a rich gravy, absolutely jammed full of rich flavour. It should also have a buttery, flaky pastry. It’s the sort of meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for colder months!
Why you’ll love it
Although North Americans don’t think of savoury when pies come up, meat pies and fish pies are an essential part of British dining. Whether at a pub or eating at home in front of the TV, it’s hard to think of better comfort food than this! A classic meat pie is no different than, let’s say, a chicken pot pie, which is also a staple in the US and Canada. Or chicken and mushroom pie, which is a bit more British. It is, however, a little heartier and takes a bit more effort to prepare, which is well worth it, I can assure you. A steak pie has all the goodness of a rich and delicious stew. The meat tenderises beautifully when slow cooked in the flavourful gravy and vegetables. Even better, it is wrapped in a buttery shortcrust pastry.
Serving suggestions
A steak pie like this is great with mashed potato on the side. Traditional colcannon is a great place to start, or Champ (Irish Potato Mash). Mashed potatoes are perfect because they soak up the flavourful gravy within the pie. It’s a pretty rich dish, so a fresh and simple side salad will also pair very well and add some lightness to the meal. If not a salad, I would add vegetables like Lemon Garlic Green Beans.
Storage and leftovers
If you end up with leftovers, let the pie cool slightly before placing into the fridge. It can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days. I have also frozen leftover steak pie with good results when stored in an airtight container or wrapped in cling film. I would recommend cutting into pieces so that one piece can be taken out at a time for future meals. To reheat, let it completely defrost and then place in a preheated oven for around 15 minutes, depending on the size of the piece. I would avoid microwaving as the crust will become soggy. Air fryers will work well, though, and will take about 5 minutes at 160C/320F.
