Ingredients
Method
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches until nicely seared on all sides.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Create the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and beef, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the thyme and Worcestershire sauce.
- Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 1.5-2 hours until the beef is fork-tender. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the beef filling to a 9-inch pie dish. Roll out one sheet of pastry to cover the bottom if using a deep dish, then place the second sheet over the top. Crimp the edges and cut slits in the top for steam to escape. Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Notes
Choose chuck roast or stew meat for best tenderness. Don't rush browning the beef for deeper flavor. If filling is too thin, thicken with cornstarch slurry. Can prepare filling 2 days ahead and assemble before baking.
