How to make Authentic Meat Pie

At Tillyfoodies, we bring you the rich, authentic flavors of West Africa, and one of the most beloved snacks is the Meat

Pie. This delicious hand pie, popular in Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon, features a flaky, buttery crust filled with savory, spiced meat. Influenced by British pasties and Latin American empanadas, African Meat Pie has been adapted with local spices and flavors, making it a staple in homes, street food stalls, and bakeries. Whether enjoyed as a snack, lunch, or party treat, this meat pie is a true West African delight—and now, you can make it yourself!

 

Now, let’s dive into how you can make this delicious snack at home!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1kg all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 750g cold butter (cut into cubes)

• ¼ cup cold water (adjust as needed)

• ¼ milk

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 250g ground beef (or minced chicken)

• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)

• 1 medium carrot (grated or diced) – optional

• ½ teaspoon thyme

• 1 seasoning cube (optional)

• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 tablespoon flour corn starch (to thicken the filling)

• ¼ cup water

• 1 tablespoon garlic and ginger paste (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix flour and salt.

2. Add cold butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs.

3. Gradually add cold water and milk and mix until a dough forms. Knead lightly, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onions, and sauté until soft.

2. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

3. Stir in, thyme, seasoning cube, Ginger and garlic paste, salt, and black pepper.

4. Add carrots (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes.

5. Mix the cornstarch with water, then pour into the meat mixture to thicken it. Let it cool completely.

Step 3: Assemble the Meat Pies

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut out circles using a bowl or cutter.

3. Place a spoonful of filling on one side of each dough circle.

4. Fold over and seal edges by pressing with a fork.

5. Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake

• Arrange pies on a baking tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.

Enjoy!

Serve warm with a chilled drink or tea. This meat pie is a staple at Tillyfoodies, bringing a taste of home wherever you are. Try it today and experience a true West African delight!