Meat Pie (plăcintă Cu Carne)

Meat Pie (Plăcintă cu carne) is a traditional Moldovan dish that consists of a savory pie filled with a delicious mixture of seasoned meat and onions, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a comforting meal or a special occasion.

Meat Pie (plăcintă Cu Carne)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and cold, cubed butter. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Add the cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out one portion on a floured surface to fit the bottom of a pie dish. Place the rolled-out dough in the pie dish.
  6. Spoon the meat mixture onto the dough in the pie dish.
  7. Roll out the second portion of dough and place it over the meat filling. Seal the edges and cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
  8. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
  9. Let the meat pie cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
25g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Pie dish Skillet Rolling pin

Tools

Oven

Serving suggestions

Serve the meat pie with a side of fresh salad or pickled vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a richer flavor, you can add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top of the meat pie before serving.

Cost

$15