Beef and Mustard Pie

Story behind the dish

There’s something so comforting about classic British pies, and this Beef and Mustard Pie is no exception. Imagine tender chunks of beef coated in a rich, savory sauce, gently simmered with thyme and a splash of red wine, then topped with flaky puff pastry. It’s a hearty dish that warms the soul and brings friends and family together around the table.

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping centerpiece, perfect for cozy weekend dinners or special occasions. The luscious beef filling paired with fresh green beans makes for a balanced, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 lb (1 kg) beef, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp plain flour
• 2 tbsp rapeseed oil
• ¾ cup (200 ml) red wine
• 1 ¾ cups (400 ml) beef stock
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 2 tbsp mustard
• 2 large egg yolks, beaten
• 14 oz (400 g) puff pastry
• 10 oz (300 g) green beans
• 1 tbsp butter
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of black pepper

Step-by-step

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C, Gas Mark 2).
2. Toss the beef chunks with the flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well coated.
3. Heat a large casserole over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp of rapeseed oil, then sear half of the beef until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside. Repeat with the remaining oil and beef.
4. Return all beef to the casserole, pour in the red wine, and simmer until the liquid reduces by half.
5. Add the beef stock, onion, carrots, thyme, and mustard. Stir well, season to taste, then cover with a lid.
6. Transfer the casserole to the oven and cook for 2 hours until the beef is tender.
7. Remove from the oven, check seasoning, and let it cool. Discard the thyme sprigs.
8. When cooled and ready to assemble, increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C, Gas Mark 6). Pour the beef filling into a pie dish.
9. Brush the rim of the dish with beaten egg yolks, then lay the puff pastry over the top. Trim excess pastry and crimp the edges. Brush the top with more beaten egg.
10. Bake for 30 minutes until golden and crisp.
11. Meanwhile, cook the green beans in salted boiling water for 4-5 minutes, then drain.
12. Toss the beans with butter, season with black pepper, and serve alongside the pie.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For extra flavor, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the beef filling before baking.
• Serve with a simple side salad or mashed potatoes for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Closing thoughts

This Beef and Mustard Pie unwraps a world of comforting flavors in every bite—a perfect blend of tender meat, sharp mustard, and flaky pastry. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, enjoy every mouthful, and create lasting memories around the dinner table. Roast, simmer, bake, and savor—your family will thank you!