**Introduction**
Pie mixes with tender shredded beef, spicy jalapeños, and melted cheese offer a delicious fusion of flavors, creating a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This savory pie is known for its satisfying balance between the rich, slow-cooked beef, the spicy kick from jalapeños, and the creamy indulgence of melted cheese. It’s a wonderful dish to serve at gatherings, family dinners, or any time you’re in the mood for a comforting, flavorful meal with a little heat.
**Origin and Cultural Significance**
This particular pie is a fusion of traditional beef dishes and the influence of Southwestern or Mexican cuisine, where jalapeños are a staple. The concept of combining beef with spices and cheese is a hallmark of comfort foods from many cultures, but the addition of jalapeños and the melting cheese gives this dish a distinctly Southwestern twist. This dish appeals to those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors with the savory richness of slow-cooked meat.
Over time, beef pies have been adapted in various regions, but this specific combination is popular in areas where Tex-Mex flavors dominate. It represents the blending of American comfort food traditions with the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine, making it a beloved option for fans of both genres.
**Ingredients Quantity**
**For the Pie Filling:**
– **2 pounds** beef chuck roast (or similar cut), shredded
– **2 tablespoons** vegetable oil
– **1 large onion**, diced
– **3-4 cloves** garlic, minced
– **1-2 jalapeños**, seeded and diced (adjust to heat preference)
– **1 teaspoon** cumin
– **1 teaspoon** smoked paprika
– **1/2 teaspoon** chili powder (optional)
– **1/2 cup** beef broth or stock
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **1 1/2 cups** shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
**For the Pie Crust:**
– **2 1/2 cups** all-purpose flour
– **1 teaspoon** salt
– **1 cup (2 sticks)** cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
– **1/4 cup** ice water (more if needed)
**Optional Additions:**
– **Black beans**: Add 1/2 cup of cooked black beans to the filling for extra protein and texture.
– **Corn kernels**: Add 1/2 cup for a sweet, crunchy contrast to the spicy jalapeños.
– **Sour cream**: Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top to cool down the spice.
– **Cilantro**: Fresh chopped cilantro can be sprinkled on top for added freshness and flavor.
**Tips for Success:**
– **Shred the Beef Properly**: Make sure the beef is tender enough to shred easily with a fork. Slow-cooking the beef will ensure it’s moist and flavorful.
– **Balance the Heat**: If you prefer less heat, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds entirely. For more spice, leave some seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
– **Cheese Melting**: Use cheeses that melt smoothly, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend. The cheese helps bind the filling and adds a creamy texture.
– **Homemade Crust**: If making your pie crust from scratch, ensure that the butter is cold, and don’t overwork the dough to avoid a tough crust.
– **Let It Rest**: After baking, let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the filling set and make it easier to serve.
**Instructions:**
#### Step 1: Prepare the Beef
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper and sear it on all sides until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced jalapeños, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir and cook for another minute until the spices become aromatic.
4. Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and can be shredded easily with a fork.
5. Once the beef is cooked, shred it and mix it back into the pot with the onions and spices.
Step 2: Make the Pie Crust
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and, using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
3. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
1. Preheat the oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
2. Roll out one of the pie dough discs on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie pan. Press it into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
3. Spoon the shredded beef mixture into the crust. Top with shredded cheese and any optional additions like black beans or corn.
4. Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling. Pinch the edges to seal the pie and cut slits in the top for steam to escape.
Step 4: Bake
1. Bake the pie for **40-45 minutes**, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
2. Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
**Description**
This pie combines tender, slow-cooked beef with the bold spice of jalapeños and the creamy goodness of melted cheese, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust. The beef is richly flavored with cumin, paprika, and garlic, creating a filling that’s hearty and satisfying. The jalapeños provide a punch of heat that’s balanced by the melty cheese, making each bite a deliciously indulgent experience.
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### **Nutritional Information** (Per serving, based on 8 servings):
– **Calories**: 450 kcal
– **Protein**: 25g
– **Carbohydrates**: 28g
– **Fat**: 27g
– **Fiber**: 2g
– **Sodium**: 550mg
**Conclusion**
Beef, jalapeños, and cheese are a winning combination in this savory pie. With its tender, shredded beef, the right amount of spice from the jalapeños, and the creamy richness of melted cheese, this pie offers a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
**Recommendation**
Serve the pie with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a balanced meal. It pairs well with a light, refreshing beverage to complement the spicy kick of the jalapeños. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick and delicious meal later.
### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
To make this dish a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor, consider these options:
– **Use leaner cuts of beef** to reduce the fat content.
– **Swap out some of the cheese** for a lower-fat variety, or use less cheese if you’re watching calories.
– **Add vegetables** like bell peppers or zucchini to the filling to increase fiber and nutrients.
– **Use whole wheat flour** for the crust to add more fiber and nutrients while maintaining a flaky texture.
By making these small adjustments, you can enjoy this rich and hearty pie while embracing a more health-conscious approach.