Balkan Shepherd's Pie (Balkanska Pogača)

Balkanska Pogača, also known as Balkan Shepherd's Pie, is a traditional Serbian dish that combines layers of flaky pastry with a savory meat filling. This hearty and comforting meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Balkan Shepherd's Pie (Balkanska Pogača)

Ingredients

  • 500g ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 500g puff pastry
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
  2. Add the bell pepper, peas, and carrots to the skillet. Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool.
  3. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the puff pastry and line the bottom of a greased baking dish with half of the pastry.
  4. Pour the cooled meat mixture over the pastry in the baking dish. Cover with the remaining puff pastry, sealing the edges. Brush the top with the beaten egg.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
  6. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
450 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
35g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Baking dish Skillet Knife Cutting board

Tools

Oven Rolling pin

Serving suggestions

Serve the Balkanska Pogača hot, accompanied by a fresh green salad or pickled vegetables.

Tips & tricks

For a time-saving option, you can use store-bought puff pastry instead of making it from scratch.

Cost

$15