Indulge in the rich and hearty flavors of a mixed game pie, a classic British dish that showcases a variety of game meats in a savory filling encased in buttery puff pastry. This recipe serves four and is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special gathering. The combination of game meats, such as venison, pheasant, and rabbit, provides a unique and robust taste experience. The filling is enhanced with aromatic ingredients like bay leaves, carrots, black peppercorns, and a touch of ginger. A splash of sweet sherry and the zesty orange zest and juice add depth and brightness to the dish. The pie is then baked to perfection, with the golden pastry encasing the flavorful filling. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this comforting and satisfying mixed game pie.
INGREDIENTS:
- 450g/1lb mixed game meat, off the bone
- 1 small onion, halved
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 carrots, halved
- 4 black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 75g/3oz rindless streaky bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon plain flour
- 2 tablespoons sweet sherry
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- Grated zest and juice of 1/2 orange
- 350g/12oz ready-made puff pastry
- Beaten egg or milk, to glaze
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- Put the game meat in a deep pan with half an onion, bay leaves, carrots, and black peppercorns. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Simmer until the liquid is reduced to about 300ml/10fl oz, then strain the stock and keep it aside.
- Cut the game meat into bite-size pieces. Chop the remaining onion half. Heat the oil in a frying pan, sauté the onion until softened. Add the bacon and game meat, and sauté quickly to seal. Sprinkle on the flour and stir until it begins to brown. Gradually add the reserved stock, stirring as it thickens. Then add the sherry, ground ginger, orange zest, and juice. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Transfer the contents of the pan to a 900ml/1 1/2pt pie dish and allow it to cool slightly. Place a pie funnel in the center of the filling to help hold up the pastry.
- Preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F/Gas mark 7. Roll out the puff pastry until slightly larger than the dish. Place it over the top of the dish and brush with beaten egg or milk. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 190°C/375°F/Gas mark 5 and bake for a further 25-30 minutes. Serve hot.
YIELD:
- This recipe serves 4.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- The game meat can include a variety of meats like venison, pheasant, rabbit, etc. Choose a combination that suits your taste.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Ensure the puff pastry is rolled out slightly larger than the pie dish to cover the filling adequately.
- Use a pie funnel to help support the pastry and prevent it from collapsing during baking.
TIPS:
- Serve the mixed game pie with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftover pie can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Reheat in the oven to maintain the pastry’s crispness.
In conclusion, the mixed game pie is a flavorful and comforting dish that celebrates the richness of various game meats. This recipe offers a delectable combination of meats like venison, pheasant, and rabbit, cooked with aromatic ingredients like bay leaves, carrots, black peppercorns, and a hint of ginger. The filling is further enhanced by the addition of sweet sherry and the zest and juice of an orange, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors.
