Are you in the mood for a delicious and comforting meal that will warm you up from the inside out? Look no further than this amazing recipe for the best steak and kidney pie made in a slow cooker. This classic British dish is a true crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
What sets this recipe apart is the use of a slow cooker, which allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become incredibly tender and succulent. The combination of juicy steak and rich kidney creates a hearty filling that is packed with flavor. The slow cooking process also allows the pie to develop a deliciously thick gravy that coats the meat perfectly.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, want to impress your family, or simply want to treat yourself to a comforting meal, this steak and kidney pie recipe is the way to go. Pair it with a side of crispy roast potatoes and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
In order to prepare the best steak and kidney pie in a slow cooker, you will need a number of key ingredients to create the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Here are the essential ingredients for this recipe:
- Steak: Choose a tender and flavorful cut of beef, such as sirloin or ribeye, and cut it into bite-sized pieces. This will be the main protein component of the pie.
- Kidney: Include kidney in the recipe to add depth and richness to the pie. Opt for beef kidneys, which have a slightly gamey flavor that pairs well with the steak.
- Onion: Use a large onion, finely chopped, to add sweetness and aroma to the filling.
- Carrots: Dice a couple of carrots to provide color and sweetness to the pie. These will also contribute to the overall texture of the filling.
- Flour: Use all-purpose flour to coat the steak and kidney before cooking. This will help thicken the filling as it cooks.
- Beef stock: Choose a high-quality beef stock to enhance the meaty flavors in the pie.
- Worcestershire sauce: This tangy and savory sauce adds depth and complexity to the filling.
- Herbs and spices: Season the filling with a combination of herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and black pepper, to infuse it with aromatic flavors.
- Puff pastry: Use store-bought puff pastry to create a golden and flaky crust for the pie.
- Egg: Beat an egg and use it to brush the pastry before baking, resulting in a glossy and appetizing finish.
Gathering these ingredients will ensure you have everything you need to make a delicious and hearty steak and kidney pie in a slow cooker.
Preparation
Before you start making the best steak and kidney pie in your slow cooker, you need to gather all the necessary ingredients. Make sure you have high-quality steak, kidney, onions, mushrooms, and a savory beef stock. Additionally, you will need flour, butter, and herbs like thyme and bay leaves to enhance the flavor of the pie.
Next, you will need to prepare the steak and kidney by trimming off any excess fat and cutting them into bite-sized pieces. It’s important to ensure that the meat is evenly sized to ensure even cooking and a uniform texture in the pie. Additionally, you can season the meat with salt and black pepper to enhance its flavor.
Once the meat is ready, it’s time to prepare the filling. Start by sautéing the onions and mushrooms in butter until they are soft and caramelized. This will help to release their flavors and add a rich taste to the pie. Then, add the steak and kidney to the pan and brown them on all sides. This step will help to lock in the juices and prevent the pie from becoming too watery.
To thicken the filling, sprinkle flour over the meat and vegetables and stir it in until it forms a thick paste. This will help to create a thick, luscious gravy that will keep the pie moist and flavorful. Finally, pour the beef stock over the mixture, add the herbs, and give everything a good stir. The filling is now ready to be transferred to the slow cooker for the long, slow cooking process that will result in a melt-in-your-mouth steak and kidney pie.
Slow Cooker Instructions:
If you prefer to use a slow cooker to make the best steak and kidney pie, follow these simple steps. First, start by heating some oil in a skillet on medium high heat. Add the steak and kidney pieces and cook until browned on all sides. This will give the meat a nice flavor and seal in the juices. Once the meat is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker.
Next, in the same skillet, cook the onions until they become translucent and slightly caramelized. This will add a sweet and savory flavor to the pie. Once the onions are done, add them to the slow cooker along with the beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and any additional seasonings you prefer, such as thyme or bay leaves. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors are well combined.
Set the slow cooker to low heat and let the ingredients simmer for at least 6 hours, or until the steak and kidney are tender and the flavors have melded together. This slow cooking process will result in a rich and flavorful filling for your pie. Once the filling is done, you can transfer it to a pie dish, top it with pastry, and bake it in the oven until the crust is golden brown and flaky.
Using a slow cooker to make steak and kidney pie is a convenient and hands-off method that allows the flavors to develop over time. The long, slow cooking process ensures that the meat becomes tender and the flavors have time to meld together. The result is a delicious and comforting dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving the best steak and kidney pie made in a slow cooker, there are several delicious options to choose from. Here are some serving suggestions to complement this hearty dish:
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve the steak and kidney pie with a generous side of creamy mashed potatoes. The rich and flavorful filling of the pie pairs perfectly with the smooth texture of the potatoes.
- Steamed Vegetables: Add a touch of freshness to your plate by serving the pie with a side of steamed vegetables. Carrots, peas, and green beans are excellent choices that not only add color to the dish but also provide a nutritious element.
- Pickled Onions: For a tangy and slightly sweet contrast, serve the steak and kidney pie with pickled onions. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the pie and adds a zesty flavor.
- Red Wine Sauce: Elevate the flavors of the dish by drizzling a rich red wine sauce over the steak and kidney pie. The sauce adds a luxurious touch and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Crisp Salad: Offset the richness of the pie with a crisp and refreshing salad. A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is an excellent choice.
With these serving suggestions, you can create a well-balanced and satisfying meal that highlights the delicious flavors of the steak and kidney pie slow-cooked to perfection.
Variations
There are countless variations of the classic steak and kidney pie recipe, allowing you to customize this beloved dish to your taste. Here are a few popular variations:
1. Vegetable Pie
If you prefer a vegetarian or lighter option, you can replace the steak and kidney with a variety of vegetables. Consider using mushrooms, carrots, potatoes, peas, and onions as the filling. You can also experiment with different herbs and seasonings to enhance the flavors.
2. Guinness Steak and Kidney Pie
For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of Guinness beer to your recipe. The dark and malty flavor of the beer complements the savory filling and adds depth to the dish. Be sure to reduce the amount of other liquids and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Individual Pies
If you prefer individual servings, you can make mini pies instead of one large pie. This is a great option for parties or gatherings, allowing each guest to have their own personal pie. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as smaller pies will cook faster than larger ones.
Ultimately, the best steak and kidney pie recipe is the one that suits your taste buds. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients, spices, and even the cooking method. Whether you choose to make it in the slow cooker or oven, a homemade steak and kidney pie is sure to be a delicious and comforting meal.
10 Best Steak And Kidney Pie Recipe Slow Cooker
Features
Part Number | 4102845 |
Size | 14.99 Ounce (Pack of 6) |
Features
Is Adult Product | |
Size | 14.88 Ounce (Pack of 6) |
Features
Part Number | W7-LYEG-LUT4 |
Size | 6 x 475g |
Features
Size | 425 gram |
- The ‘classic’ pie.
- Succulent pieces of steak and kidney.
- Topped by our signature puff pastry.
FAQ
What are variations?
Variations are differences or changes in something, such as in color, size, shape, or form.
Why do variations occur?
Variations occur due to various factors, including genetic mutations, environmental conditions, and natural selection.
What is the importance of variations?
Variations are important because they contribute to biodiversity, allowing species to adapt and survive in changing environments. They also play a role in evolution and the development of new traits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, variations are an inherent part of life and can be found in every aspect of our existence. Whether it is in nature, culture, or even within ourselves, variations bring diversity and richness to our world. Embracing and appreciating these variations can lead us to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. By recognizing and celebrating the beauty of variations, we not only foster inclusivity and acceptance but also unlock the full potential of human creativity and innovation. So let us embrace and cherish variations, for they are the source of our uniqueness and the key to our collective progress.