Introduction to Forfar Bridies
Forfar Bridies are a traditional Scottish pastry, originating from the town of Forfar.
These hand-held pies are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef and onions, wrapped in a flaky puff pastry.
Known for their simple yet hearty flavors, Bridies have been enjoyed for centuries as a satisfying meal or snack.
Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering, this easy-to-make recipe delivers a delicious taste of Scotland right in your kitchen, with the buttery pastry complementing the rich beef filling.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons beef or vegetable stock
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
1 (16 oz) package puff pastry or 1 (14 oz) package empanada baking discs, thawed
1 egg white
How To Make Forfar Bridies
Preheat oven to 440˚F.
Combine beef, onion, mustard, salt, pepper, and stock in a large bowl.
Fold in butter.
If using puff pastry cut into 6-8 equal circles about 6″ across.
Add filling to circles and wet one half of the perimeter.
Fold over and press with a fork to seal the edges.
Brush with beaten egg white and cut a couple slits in the top of each one for steam to come out.
Bake for 32-35 minutes or until golden brown on outside, covering with foil about halfway through baking.
Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Variations and Tips for Forfar Bridies
Forfar Bridies offer a versatile canvas for different flavors and ingredients.
To enhance the richness, you can add shredded cheese to the beef mixture, or for a vegetarian option, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the beef for lamb to achieve a more traditional Scottish taste, or spice up the filling with paprika or cayenne for an extra kick.
For a sweet variation, you can even turn Bridies into dessert by using fruit fillings like apples.
When preparing the pastry, be sure to keep the butter cold to maintain a juicy filling, and seal the edges of the pastry firmly to prevent leaks.
Additionally, covering the Bridies with foil halfway through baking ensures the crust browns evenly.
If you’re looking for convenience, unbaked Bridies can be frozen and baked later, offering flexibility for future meals.
These tips and variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your tastes while guaranteeing a delicious result every time.
How to Store Forfar Bridies
To store Forfar Bridies, allow them to cool completely after baking.
Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispness.
For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked or baked Bridies.
If freezing unbaked, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
When ready to bake, thaw slightly before cooking.
If freezing baked Bridies, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Frozen baked Bridies can be reheated directly in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
This method keeps your Bridies fresh and ready for a quick meal whenever needed!