
Forfar Bridies (Scottish Hand Pies)
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion
finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons beef or vegetable stock
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
cold and cut into small cubes
- 1 package puff pastry or 1 package empanada baking discs
thawed, 16 oz
- 1 egg white
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 440˚F. Combine beef, onion, mustard, salt, pepper, and stock in a large bowl. Fold in butter.
- 2
If using puff pastry cut into 6-8 equal circles about 6" across. Add filling to circles and wet one half of the perimeter. Fold over and press with a fork to seal the edges. Brush with beaten egg white and cut a couple slits in the top of each one for steam to come out.
- 3
Bake for 32-35 minutes or until golden brown on outside, covering with foil about halfway through baking. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Forfar Bridies (Scottish Hand Pies)
Ratings & Reviews
Be the First to Rate
Your rating helps others discover amazing recipes. Share your experience and let others know what you think!
About this Recipe
Yearning for a taste of Scotland? These delightful Forfar Bridies, traditional Scottish hand pies, deliver savory comfort in every golden bite. This recipe brings the essence of these wonderful Scottish hand pies right to your kitchen, making a hearty and flavorful meal accessible.
Why These Scottish Hand Pies Work
The magic of these Forfar Bridies lies in their straightforward, yet deeply satisfying, flavor profile. The rich ground beef filling, seasoned simply with finely chopped onion, a hint of Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, is made wonderfully moist with beef or vegetable stock. Encased in a choice of golden puff pastry or convenient empanada baking discs, it’s a harmonious package of savory goodness that promises delightful flavor.
What to Expect
Prepare for a truly satisfying culinary experience with these Scottish hand pies. You can look forward to a wonderfully tender, golden crust that gives way to a moist and richly flavored ground beef filling. The finely chopped onion adds an aromatic sweetness, while the Dijon mustard provides a subtle, piquant note that brilliantly balances the savory richness of the beef. Each bite offers a hearty, comforting blend of textures and tastes, living up to their description as "delightfully golden and filled with wonderful flavor."
Customization & Variations
These Forfar Bridies are wonderfully adaptable. For a slightly different flavor profile, you could experiment with varying the type of stock, using either beef for a robust depth or vegetable for a lighter touch. If you prefer a different texture, empanada baking discs offer a convenient and slightly chewier alternative to the classic flaky puff pastry. Additionally, a different mustard variety, such as a whole grain mustard, could introduce a subtle textural pop to the filling.
Serving & Context
These savory hand pies are perfect for a satisfying lunch, a convenient picnic meal, or a comforting family dinner. Serve them alongside a crisp green salad or with a dollop of your favorite relish for a complete and hearty experience.