If you’re craving a hearty, old-fashioned savory bake, Forfar Bridies are a true Scottish classic worth discovering. Originating in the town of Forfar, Angus, these hand pies have been enjoyed for well over a century. With their distinctive half-moon shape and simple but flavorful beef filling, bridies are practical, filling, and deeply comforting—perfect for lunch, picnics, or a warm snack on a cool day.
Unlike modern stuffed pastries, traditional Forfar bridies rely on quality ingredients and careful handling, letting the natural flavor of beef and onions shine through.
Ingredients (Makes about 8 Bridies)
For the Pastry
- 500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 250 g (1 cup) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Cold water, as needed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Filling
- 500 g (1 lb) minced beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, traditional)
- 1 tablespoon beef stock or water
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Make the Pastry
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.
- Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Add cold water a little at a time, mixing gently until a firm dough forms.
- Wrap the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to rest.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Heat the butter or oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook gently until soft and translucent—do not brown.
- In a bowl, combine the minced beef, cooked onion, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and stock.
- Mix lightly and allow the filling to cool completely.
Step 3: Assemble the Bridies
- Roll the chilled pastry on a floured surface to about 3 mm (⅛ inch) thick.
- Cut circles roughly 12 cm (5 inches) in diameter.
- Place a spoonful of filling onto one half of each pastry circle.
- Fold over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pinching or crimping with a fork.
- Make a small slit in the top for steam.
- Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the bridies on it.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Forfar Bridies
- Keep the filling simple – traditional bridies avoid heavy herbs or sauces
- Cold pastry is key for flakiness and clean shaping
- Don’t overfill, or the pastry may burst
- Bridies can be frozen unbaked and cooked straight from frozen (add 5–7 minutes)
Serving Suggestions
Forfar bridies are delicious hot or cold and pair well with:
- Mashed potatoes and gravy
- A simple green salad
- Pickles or mustard
- A cup of tea or a pint of ale for a true Scottish touch
A Taste of Scottish Heritage
Forfar Bridies are more than just meat pies—they’re a piece of Scotland’s culinary history. With flaky pastry, savory beef filling, and a rustic charm, they showcase how simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. Whether you’re exploring Scottish cooking or revisiting a beloved tradition, these hand pies deliver warmth, flavor, and timeless appeal in every bite.
