Beef and Mustard Pie

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the Oven

   1 min

   Set your oven to 150°C (300°F) or Gas Mark 2 to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for slow cooking the beef later. This gradual heating will help create a tender filling for your pie.

2. 2

   Prepare the Beef Mixture

   10 min

   In a mixing bowl, combine beef chunks with plain flour, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This coating will help thicken the gravy and enhance the flavor during cooking.

3. 3

   Brown the Beef

   20 min

   In a large casserole dish, heat half of the rapeseed oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add enough beef to form a single layer and sear until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside, then repeat with the remaining oil and beef until all are nicely browned.

4. 4

   Simmer the Beef and Vegetables

   16 min

   Return the browned beef to the casserole dish and pour in the red wine. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce by half, which will take about 10 minutes. Next, add in beef stock, sliced onion, chopped carrots, thyme, and mustard. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, stirring well to combine.

5. 5

   Cook in the Oven

   1 min

   Cover the casserole dish tightly with a lid or foil and place it in the preheated oven. Allow it to cook for 2 hours, which will tenderize the beef and meld the flavors together.

6. 6

   Cool and Finalize the Filling

   20 min

   After cooking, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Let the filling cool slightly, then discard the thyme sprigs before assembling the pie.

7. 7

   Preheat the Oven Again

   1 min

   Raise the oven temperature to 200°C (400°F) or Gas Mark 6 to prepare for baking the pie. This higher temperature will help achieve a flaky, golden crust.

8. 8

   Assemble the Pie

   8 min

   Transfer the cooled beef mixture into a pie dish, ensuring it's evenly spread out. Brush the edges of the dish with beaten egg yolks to help the pastry adhere, then lay the puff pastry over the top. Use more egg yolk to glaze the surface for a beautiful finish.

9. 9

   Trim and Crimp the Pastry

   3 min

   Carefully trim any excess pastry from the edges of the pie, then crimp the edges to seal in the filling. This will create a decorative edge and help keep the filling from bubbling out during baking.

10. 10

    Bake the Pie

    59 min

    Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning.

11. 11

    Cook the Green Beans

    16 min

    In a saucepan, bring salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are just tender but still bright green. Drain them well and toss with butter, adding a touch of black pepper for flavor.

12. 12

    Plate and Serve

    8 min

    Serve generous slices of the beef and mustard pie alongside the sautéed green beans on each plate. This hearty meal is perfect for a comforting dinner.

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