Forfar Bridies are delicious Scottish pastries filled with minced meat, onions, and spices. They have a flaky crust that makes them super tasty and perfect for any occasion!
When I make these, I can’t help but sneak a warm one while they cool. They are great for lunch or a snack, and everyone loves them. Who doesn’t enjoy a cozy pastry? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Minced Beef: This is the star of the filling! Lean minced beef is preferred for a tasty yet not overly greasy result. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor and moisture to the filling. If you need to avoid onions, try using finely chopped mushrooms or even grated carrots for a slight sweetness.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for a bit of heat. For a milder flavor, simply omit it or sprinkle in a bit of paprika instead, which adds color with less spice.
Flour: Regular all-purpose flour works great for the pastry. If you’re gluten-sensitive, using a gluten-free flour blend can work well. Just make sure to follow any specific guidelines for that flour type.
Butter: Cold butter gives the pastry its flaky texture. Sometimes, I like to mix in a bit of shortening for extra flakiness. You can also use vegan butter if preferred!
How Do I Get Flaky Pastry Without the Hassle?
The pastry is the key to making these bridies special! Here are some simple techniques to ensure it’s perfectly flaky:
- Keep the butter cold and handle the dough as little as possible to prevent it from warming up.
- When mixing the butter into flour, aim for pea-sized pieces. This helps create layers that puff up when baking.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough; this relaxes the gluten and makes rolling easier.
- Use plenty of flour when rolling out the pastry to prevent sticking, and roll in one direction to keep the shape even.
Easy Traditional Scottish Forfar Bridies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 500g (1 lb) minced beef (preferably lean)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for mild heat)
For The Pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 200g (7 oz) cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 tsp salt
- About 6-8 tbsp cold water
For The Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill the dough. Afterward, you’ll spend about 25-30 minutes baking. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 20 minutes to enjoy delicious Forfar Bridies from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced beef, finely chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it for a bit of heat). Mix everything together until it’s well blended. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the pastry.
2. Prepare the Pastry:
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Add the cold cubed butter, and using your fingertips, rub it into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse breadcrumbs. This will help to create a flaky texture. Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough begins to come together. Once it forms a ball, wrap it in cling film and chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes.
3. Roll and Fill:
While your dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 3-5mm. Now, cut out circles that are approximately 12-15 cm (5-6 inches) in diameter using a bowl or pastry cutter. Place a heaped tablespoon of your meat filling onto one half of each circle. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Firmly press the edges together with your fingers, then crimp them with a fork to seal the bridies. Don’t forget to make two small slits on top to allow steam to escape while baking!
4. Bake:
Carefully place the bridies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the top of each pastry with beaten egg to give it a lovely golden color when baked. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.
5. Serve:
Once the bridies are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm as a snack or as part of a meal—perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own!
Dig into your homemade Scottish Forfar Bridies, with their flaky crust and juicy, flavorful filling. They are sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Traditional Scottish Forfar Bridies
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as turkey can be a bit milder in flavor.
How Can I Make the Pastry Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pastry dough in advance! After mixing it, wrap it tightly in cling film and refrigerate for up to two days. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before rolling it out.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Bridies?
Leftover bridies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through for the best texture.
Can I Freeze These Bridies?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked or baked bridies. For uncooked, freeze them on a baking sheet and, once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If they’re already baked, reheat from frozen in the oven as mentioned above.
