Curried Beef Hand Pies
If you’ve never made hand pies from scratch, this is the recipe that will win you over. These curried beef hand pies are flaky, golden pockets filled with tender beef simmered in warm spices and finished with a creamy coconut base.
The pastry is buttery and light, yet sturdy enough to hold the rich, juicy filling—comfort food with an elevated twist. Perfect for meal prep, snacks, or sharing.
Why This Recipe Works
- Rich, slow-cooked filling using real beef for better texture
- Balanced spices (curry, cumin, turmeric, paprika) for warmth without overpowering heat
- Creamy coconut base adds depth and smoothness
- Flaky homemade pastry that holds everything together perfectly
Ingredients
Filling
- 500g beef stew meat, finely chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper
- 1 cup beef stock
- ½ cup coconut milk (or cream)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Pastry
- 250g self-raising flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 125g cold butter, diced
- 60ml ice-cold water
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic and spices, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Pour in beef stock and coconut milk. Simmer on low heat for 30–40 minutes until thick and rich.
Let the filling cool completely.
2. Make the Dough
Mix flour and salt in a bowl. Rub in cold butter until crumbly. Add cold water gradually and bring together into a dough.
Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
3. Shape the Pies
Roll dough to about 3–5 mm thickness. Cut into circles.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center, cover with another circle, and seal edges with a fork.
4. Bake
Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F). Place pies on a lined tray and brush with egg wash (optional).
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp.
Flavor Variations
- Add green peas or diced sweet potatoes
- Swap beef for ground turkey
- Make it vegetarian with lentils and chickpeas
- Create mini versions for parties
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months (baked or unbaked)
- Reheat: Oven or air fryer at 175°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes
Tip: Always use cooled filling before assembling to keep the pastry firm and easy to handle.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with yogurt-mint sauce, chutney, or ketchup
- Pair with a fresh cucumber salad
- Great for lunchboxes, picnics, or party platters
FAQs
Can I use puff pastry?
Yes, for a quicker and flakier version.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, baking at 200°C (400°F) gives a crisp, golden finish.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking and reheat in the oven.
What sauces go well with these?
Garlic yogurt, sweet chili sauce, mint chutney, or ketchup
