The Ultimate Nigerian Meat Pie Recipe – A Delicious and Flaky Delight

Nigerian Meat Pie is one of the most beloved snacks in West Africa. It is a savory, flaky pastry filled with a delicious mixture of minced meat, potatoes, and carrots. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack, Nigerian Meat Pie is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food. The rich, buttery crust combined with the flavorful, spiced filling makes it an irresistible treat. In this post, we will take you through a step-by-step guide to making authentic Nigerian Meat Pie at home.

What is Nigerian Meat Pie? Nigerian Meat Pie is a classic pastry that resembles empanadas or British Cornish pasties. However, its unique African touch comes from the rich, slightly spicy filling made with minced beef or chicken, mixed vegetables, and seasoned to perfection. The crust is buttery, crumbly, and pairs wonderfully with the juicy interior. It’s a staple at Nigerian parties, bakeries, and homes, loved by both young and old.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to follow and perfect for beginners.
• Uses simple, accessible ingredients.
• Produces a crispy, golden-brown crust with a juicy, well-seasoned filling.
• Can be made ahead and stored for later.
• Perfect for snacks, parties, or a quick meal.

Ingredients for Nigerian Meat Pie

For the Pastry Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and diced)
• ½ cup cold water
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 500g minced beef (or chicken)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 medium potato (peeled and diced)
• 1 medium carrot (peeled and diced)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken filling)
• ½ cup beef broth or water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
3. Add the minced beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned.
4. Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots, followed by the curry powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
5. Add the beef broth and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
6. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to thicken the filling. Cook for another 2 minutes and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Pastry Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the diced butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingertips until it forms a crumbly texture.
3. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Meat Pies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness.
3. Use a round cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles from the dough.
4. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
6. Press the edges with a fork to seal and create a decorative pattern.
7. Beat an egg and brush it over the top of the pies for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake the Meat Pies

1. Place the prepared meat pies on the baking tray.
2. Bake for 30–40 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Nigerian Meat Pie

• Use cold butter and water to ensure a flaky crust.
• Do not overwork the dough to prevent a tough texture.
• Let the filling cool completely before stuffing the pies to avoid a soggy crust.
• Brush with egg wash for a beautiful golden color.
• Make ahead and freeze unbaked pies for later baking.

Serving Suggestions

Nigerian Meat Pie is best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven. It pairs well with:

• A hot cup of tea or coffee.
• A side of ketchup or spicy pepper sauce for dipping.
• As part of a larger spread with other Nigerian snacks like Puff Puff and Chin Chin.

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftover meat pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
• For long-term storage, freeze unbaked pies and bake them when needed.

Nigerian Meat Pie is a delicious and comforting snack that is easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a family snack, or just for yourself, this recipe guarantees a crispy, flavorful result every time. Follow these steps, and you’ll have the perfect meat pies to enjoy and share. Happy baking!