Forfar Bridies (Scottish Hand Pies)

 

Forfar Bridies: Traditional Scottish Hand Pies with a Savory Soul

If you’ve never tried a Forfar Bridie, you’re missing out on one of Scotland’s most comforting culinary treasures. These hearty hand pies hail from the town of Forfar in Angus, Scotland, and have been satisfying hungry hands and bellies since the 19th century.

Packed with tender beef, onion, and rich seasoning, all wrapped in golden, flaky pastry, Forfar Bridies are the Scottish cousin of the Cornish pasty — but with their own proud identity and loyal following. Whether you’re craving a taste of traditional Scotland or looking for the perfect hand-held meat pie, this recipe delivers old-world flavor with timeless appeal.

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🥧 What Is a Forfar Bridie?

A Forfar Bridie (pronounced "bree-dee") is a Scottish meat pastry traditionally filled with minced beef, onions, and suet, all encased in a semi-circular shortcrust or puff pastry shell. Unlike other meat pies, it doesn’t contain gravy — the meat is seasoned simply and baked until tender.

The pie was popularized in Forfar and was originally made for special occasions such as weddings (some say the name “bridie” comes from “bride”). Today, it’s a beloved Scottish street food, often eaten warm by hand — no fork required.

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🛒 Ingredients

Makes 4 large bridies

For the Pastry:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, diced

• 6–8 tbsp cold water
  Alternatively: Use ready-made shortcrust or puff pastry for convenience.

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 85% lean)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp beef suet or butter (optional, for richness)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, but adds depth)

• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing and glazing)

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Forfar Bridies

Step 1: Make the Pastry

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add diced cold butter and rub it in with your fingers until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing just until the dough comes together.

Form into a ball, wrap in cling film, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Shortcut: If using ready-made pastry, skip to step 2.

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Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, suet (if using), salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until combined — but don’t overwork it.

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Step 3: Assemble the Bridies

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Roll out your pastry on a floured surface and cut out circles roughly 6–8 inches in diameter. Divide the filling evenly among the circles, placing it on one half of each.

Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg, fold over to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together with a fork to seal.

Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with more egg for a glossy finish, and make a small slit or prick with a fork to let steam escape.

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Step 4: Bake

Bake for 25–35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is cooked through.

Let cool slightly before serving — they’re best warm, but not piping hot.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Forfar Bridies are traditionally eaten as-is, hot or cold. But if you want to serve them as part of a meal, try them with:

• Mashed potatoes and baked beans

• A simple green salad

• Pickled onions or chutney

• A hot cup of tea or even a pint of ale

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💡 Tips & Variations

• Add a Scottish touch: Mix in a bit of haggis or minced lamb for variation.

• Make mini bridies: Perfect for party platters or snacks.

• Use puff pastry for a lighter, flakier crust (more common in modern versions).

• Vegetarian option: Replace the beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, and root vegetables.

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🇬🇧 A Taste of Scottish Heritage

Forfar Bridies are more than just meat pies — they’re a bite of Scottish history. Their humble ingredients and satisfying flavor have stood the test of time, feeding farmers, families, and food lovers for generations. Whether you’re baking them for Burns Night, a family picnic, or just a cozy night in, these hand pies offer comfort, culture, and a whole lot of flavor in every bite.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freeze: Unbaked bridies can be frozen and baked straight from frozen — just add 10 extra minutes.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crisp crust.

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🏁 Final Thoughts

Making Homemade Forfar Bridies is a delicious way to explore Scottish cuisine and heritage — and your kitchen will smell amazing in the process. Simple, hearty, and full of character, these hand pies are sure to become a cherished go-to recipe in your home.

So roll up your sleeves, turn on the oven, and bring a taste of Scotland to your table — one golden bridie at a time.