Beef and Oyster pie

Story behind the dish

There’s something utterly comforting about a hearty beef pot pie, especially when it’s infused with rich stout and topped with delicate oysters—an indulgent twist that elevates this classic dish to fine dining levels. Imagine tender cubes of beef simmered to perfection in a savory, wine-like broth, bursting with flavors from crispy bacon, fragrant thyme, and earthy bay leaves. Wrapped in flaky pastry, this Beef and Oyster Pie is a true celebration of indulgence, perfect for special family gatherings or a cozy weekend treat.

This recipe invites you into a world where rustic charm meets gourmet elegance, blending hearty, robust flavors with the delicate taste of fresh oysters. Channel your inner chef and create this dish that’s as much a feast for the palate as it is a lovely centerpiece on your table.

Ingredients

• 2 lb (900 g) beef chuck or stewing beef cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 shallots, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 oz (125 g) bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 11 oz (330 ml) stout beer
• 14 oz (400 ml) beef stock
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (corn flour) mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• 8 fresh oysters, shucked
• 14 oz (400 g) plain all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• 9 oz (250 g) unsalted butter, grated or cubed
• 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
• Cold water (about 11 fl oz / 325 ml)

Step-by-step

1. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Cook the beef in three batches to ensure it browns evenly, transferring each batch to a large flameproof casserole dish once nicely seared. Add more oil if needed between batches.
2. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the shallots for 4-5 minutes until soft and fragrant. Then, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. Stir in the chopped bacon and cook until slightly crispy. Transfer the shallots, garlic, and bacon mixture to the casserole dish with the beef, then add the thyme and bay leaves.
3. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F / Gas 4). Pour the stout into the frying pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil, then pour the stout over the beef in the casserole. Add the beef stock, cover tightly, and bake in the oven for 1½ to 2 hours until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Once cooked, skim off excess fat from the surface, taste the sauce, and season with more salt and pepper if needed. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer on the hob for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Let the filling cool completely.
5. Increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C / Gas 6). To prepare the pastry, combine flour and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Add the grated butter a little at a time, mixing well, until incorporated. Gradually add cold water until the mixture just comes together into a dough. Knead lightly into a ball, then divide into two portions—one slightly larger for the base, and the other for the lid.
6. Roll out the larger portion of pastry until about 2 cm (¾ inch) larger than your dish. Line the dish with the pastry, pressing gently to fit, then spread the cooled beef filling evenly within. Nestle the oysters into the filling along with any remaining sauce. Brush the exposed pastry edge with beaten egg.
7. Roll out the remaining pastry to slightly larger than the dish, then gently lay it over the filling, pressing down to seal the edges. Trim off excess pastry with a sharp knife and brush with egg wash.
8. Place the pie on a baking tray and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden-brown and bubbling inside. Let it rest slightly before serving your luxurious Beef and Oyster Pie.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an extra touch of sophistication, serve this pie with a crisp green salad and a chilled glass of dry white wine or a stout beer.
• To make this dish even more decadent, try adding a splash of cream to the beef sauce before thickening.

Closing thoughts

This Beef and Oyster Pie is a celebration of hearty, soulful flavors with an elegant seaside twist. Perfect for special occasions or a fancy family dinner, it promises comfort, richness, and a touch of culinary adventure. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps with love, and delight in the warm, savory aromas that will fill your kitchen. Bon appétit!