Of course! I can help you with that. I’ll be your culinary guide as we explore the history and preparation of the Bridie, a delicious Scottish meat pasty.
The Bridie, also known as the Forfar Bridie, is a traditional Scottish meat pasty that originated in Forfar, Scotland. The word “Bridie” is Scottish vernacular for a meat pasty, and it’s believed to come from “bride’s meal,” as these pasties were often served at weddings.
There are a few different stories about the origin of the Bridie. One story claims that a woman named Maggie Bridie created them in the 1850s to sell to local workers. Another story credits a baker named Mr. Jolly with inventing the Bridie in the late 19th century.
Regardless of its exact origin, the Bridie has become a beloved Scottish dish. It’s typically made with a rich, flaky pastry that encases a savory filling of minced beef, onions, and spices. The filling is often seasoned with pepper, salt, and sometimes nutmeg.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare a Bridie:
Ingredients:
- Pastry:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shortening
- 1/2 cup cold water
- Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the pastry: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until a dough forms.
- Prepare the filling: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in the beef broth, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Assemble the Bridies: Divide the pastry dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 6 inches in diameter. Place a heaping tablespoon of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the pastry over the filling and crimp the edges to seal.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Place the Bridies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use butter instead of shortening in the pastry.
- You can add other ingredients to the filling, such as carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms.
- Serve the Bridies hot with a side of mashed potatoes, gravy, or a green salad.
I hope this information helps you create a delicious and authentic Bridie!
