Forfar Bridies (Scottish Hand Pies): A Traditional Scottish Favorite

If you love savory pastries filled with rich, flavorful meat, then Forfar Bridies are a recipe you need to try. Originating from the town of Forfar in Angus, Scotland, these delicious hand pies have been a beloved part of Scottish cuisine for generations. Known for their flaky pastry and hearty beef filling, Forfar Bridies are perfect for lunch, dinner, picnics, or as a satisfying snack any time of the day.

Unlike many meat pies that require a plate and utensils, Bridies are designed to be portable. Their half-moon shape makes them easy to hold and enjoy on the go. Traditionally filled with finely chopped beef, onions, and simple seasonings, these savory pastries showcase how a few quality ingredients can create an incredibly comforting meal.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make authentic Forfar Bridies from scratch, including the ingredients, preparation steps, and helpful tips to achieve the perfect Scottish hand pie.

What Are Forfar Bridies?

Forfar Bridies are traditional Scottish meat-filled pastries that date back to the 19th century. They are believed to have been created by local bakers in Forfar, a historic market town in eastern Scotland. The pastries are typically made with shortcrust pastry and filled with minced or finely chopped beef mixed with onions.

One of the defining features of a traditional Bridie is its crescent or semi-circular shape. The filling is enclosed within the pastry, which is then crimped around the edges before baking. The result is a golden-brown pastry with a juicy, flavorful filling inside.

Today, Forfar Bridies remain a popular Scottish bakery item and are enjoyed throughout the United Kingdom and beyond.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (225g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 6–8 tablespoons ice-cold water

For the Filling

• 1 pound (450g) beef steak, finely chopped or minced
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon beef stock or water
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

For Finishing

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

How to Make Forfar Bridies

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Alternatively, use a pastry cutter or food processor.

Gradually add the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until a dough forms. Avoid overworking the dough, as this can make the pastry tough.

Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the pastry chills, prepare the filling. In a bowl, combine the finely chopped beef, diced onion, salt, and black pepper.

Add the tablespoon of stock or water and the melted butter. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the meat remains moist during baking.

The beauty of traditional Forfar Bridies lies in their simplicity. The beef and onions provide all the flavor needed without the addition of numerous herbs or spices.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured work surface. Roll the pastry to approximately ⅛ inch (3 mm) thickness.

Using a plate, bowl, or pastry cutter, cut circles about 7 to 8 inches (18–20 cm) in diameter.

Gather any scraps, reroll the dough, and continue cutting until all the pastry has been used.

Step 4: Fill the Bridies

Place a generous portion of the beef mixture onto one half of each pastry circle, leaving a border around the edge.

Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult and may cause the filling to leak during baking.

Fold the empty half of the pastry over the filling to create a half-moon shape.

Press the edges together firmly and crimp with a fork or pinch decoratively with your fingers.

Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash

Transfer the assembled Bridies to a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Brush the tops with the beaten egg to create a beautiful golden finish during baking.

Use a sharp knife to make one or two small slits in the top of each pie. These vents allow steam to escape and help prevent the pastry from bursting.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the Bridies in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.

The filling should be fully cooked and tender, while the pastry should have a rich golden color.

Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Forfar Bridies are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. They pair wonderfully with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Garden salad
• Baked beans
• Traditional Scottish soup
• Pickles or chutneys

They are also excellent as a standalone meal, making them ideal for packed lunches, road trips, or outdoor gatherings.

Tips for Perfect Forfar Bridies

• Use cold butter when making the pastry for maximum flakiness.
• Finely chop the beef rather than using heavily processed ground beef for a more traditional texture.
• Chill the assembled pies for 10 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.
• Do not skip the steam vents, as they help prevent soggy pastry.
• Allow the pies to rest briefly after baking so the juices settle inside the filling.

Storage and Reheating

Forfar Bridies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain the crisp texture of the pastry.

They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Final Thoughts

Forfar Bridies are a wonderful example of Scotland’s rich culinary heritage. Their flaky pastry, savory beef filling, and portable design have made them a favorite for generations. Whether you’re exploring traditional Scottish recipes or simply looking for a comforting homemade meal, these delicious hand pies are sure to impress.

Making Forfar Bridies from scratch may take a little time, but the reward is a batch of golden, flavorful pastries that capture the essence of authentic Scottish baking. Serve them fresh from the oven and enjoy a taste of Scotland right in your own kitchen.