Stovie Pie

Introduction to Stovie Pie

Stovie Pie is a traditional Scottish dish that has warmed the hearts and homes of many for generations. This comforting pie is made from simple ingredients that were once common leftovers, namely potatoes, onions, and meat, transformed into a hearty meal. As a dish with deep roots in Scottish culture, Stovie Pie offers a fulfilling culinary experience that not only satisfies hunger but also reminisces about the cozy kitchen gatherings of the past.

The word 'stovies' is believed to originate from the French 'étouffée', meaning to stew, which perfectly captures the essence of this dish. In Scotland, stovies are traditionally prepared for celebrations and events, often served with oatcakes or pickled beetroot. While there are many variations of this dish throughout Scotland, this recipe focuses on creating an encapsulated pie version, turning rustic stovies into an exquisite pie that can serve as the centerpiece of any meal.

Ingredients

• Potatoes - 1.5 kg, peeled and thinly sliced
• Onions - 2 large, thinly sliced
• Beef - 500g of leftover roast beef or any preferred cooked meat, diced
• Butter - 50g
• Beef Stock - 500ml
• Shortcrust Pastry - 500g
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Salt - to taste

Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it's essential to prepare all the necessary components to ensure a smooth and enjoyable culinary experience. Start by preparing the potatoes and onions. Peel and thinly slice both ingredients, ensuring they're ready to be layered later.

Making the Stovie Filling

Begin by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, which will take about 10 minutes. Once the onions are soft, add the sliced potatoes to the pan and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

Introduce the diced beef into the pan and mix well. Season with black pepper and salt to taste. Pour over the beef stock to cover the mixture, ensuring everything is well submerged. Simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are amalgamated.

While the filling simmers, preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F).

Constructing the Pie

For the pie base, roll out one half of the shortcrust pastry and line it into a lightly greased pie dish. Press the pastry into the edges and trim any excess. Fill the pie shell with the stovie mixture, ensuring even distribution of beef, onions, and potatoes.

Roll out the remaining shortcrust pastry and carefully place it over the filled pie, creating a lid. Crimp the edges together to seal and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape during baking.

Cooking

Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Use a cooking timer to ensure the pie is baked to perfection without over-exposing it to the oven.

Testing Doneness

To ensure that the potatoes within the pie are thoroughly cooked, insert a skewer or knife into the center. It should pass through easily without resistance.

Serving and Enjoying Stovie Pie

Allow the Stovie Pie to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.

Stovie Pie pairs beautifully with traditional Scottish sides such as oatcakes or pickled beetroot. For a more substantial meal, you might want to add peas or a green salad on the side.

As you enjoy your Stovie Pie, imagine the warmth of a Scottish kitchen, the camaraderie of family gatherings, and the enduring nature of culinary tradition that has been passed down through the ages. It is more than a meal – it’s a slice of history.