Mary Berry’s Game Pie Recipe

What is Mary Berry Game Pie Recipe?

Mary Berry’s Game Pie is a rich and hearty dish that combines a variety of meats, typically including game such as pheasant, partridge, or venison, encased in a delicious pastry. It’s a perfect dish for special occasions and colder months.

What Goes Best with Mary Berry Game Pie Recipe?

• Vegetables: Serve with roasted seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts.
• Potatoes: Mashed potatoes or a creamy potato gratin complement the pie beautifully.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast.
• Gravy: Serve with a rich gravy made from the pie’s juices for added flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 250g (9 oz) plain flour
• 125g (4.5 oz) cold butter, diced
• 1 large egg yolk
• Cold water (as needed)
• Salt, to taste

For the Filling:

• 500g (1 lb) mixed game meat (e.g., pheasant, partridge, rabbit, or venison), chopped
• 100g (3.5 oz) streaky bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme
• 2 tablespoons red wine or port
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)

How to Prepare Mary Game Pie Recipe

Instructions:

1. Make the Pastry:
   • In a bowl, combine the plain flour and salt. Add the cold diced butter and rub in with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
   • Stir in the egg yolk and enough cold water to form a smooth dough. Wrap in cling film and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
   • Add the diced carrot, game meat, thyme, and red wine or port. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 10 minutes until the meat is browned and cooked through. Let it cool.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) or Gas Mark 6.
   • Roll out two-thirds of the pastry on a floured surface to fit a pie dish. Line the dish with the pastry, leaving a slight overhang.
   • Fill with the cooled game mixture, then roll out the remaining pastry to cover the top. Trim the edges and crimp to seal.
   • Cut a small hole in the center of the pie to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.
4. Bake the Pie:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. If the edges brown too quickly, cover with foil.

Notes

• Game Meat: You can use any combination of game meats or even a mix with beef or lamb if preferred.
• Pastry: You can use shop-bought pastry for convenience.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and suitable butter to make the pastry.

How to Serve Mary Berry Game Pie Recipe

• Serve hot, sliced into wedges, alongside your choice of sides like mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables.
• Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

How to Reheat Mary Berry Game Pie Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the pie with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: For individual portions, you can microwave on medium heat for 2-3 minutes.

How to Store Leftovers of Mary Berry Game Pie Recipe

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Mary Berry Game Pie Recipe

1. Can I use frozen game meat for the pie?
   Yes, but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
2. What can I use if I can’t find game meat?
   You can substitute with chicken, turkey, or beef for a delicious alternative.
3. Is game pie suitable for freezing?
   Yes, it freezes well, but make sure it’s fully cooled before freezing.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
   Yes, mushrooms, peas, or other root vegetables can be added for extra flavor and texture.
5. How do I know when the pie is cooked?
   The pastry should be golden brown and the filling bubbling.
6. Can I make the pastry ahead of time?
   Yes, the pastry can be made in advance and kept in the fridge for up to 48 hours.
7. What type of wine works best for the filling?
   A good-quality red wine or port is recommended, but any cooking wine will work.
8. Can I make individual game pies?
   Yes, you can use muffin tins or small pie dishes for individual servings.
9. Is it necessary to add bacon to the filling?
   It adds flavor and richness, but you can omit it or replace it with another fatty meat if desired.
10. What is the best way to serve leftovers?
    Reheat and serve with fresh sides like salad or roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Information of Mary Berry Game Pie Recipe (per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g