English Steak, Kidney And Mushroom Pie

The English have long been devotees of great meat pies and puddings that are prepared in various forms and then baked or steamed. One of the most traditional and commonly served is steak and kidney pie, sometimes also made with mushrooms.

Recipe

1 beef kidney.
1 and a half pounds round steak, cut into 1-inch cubes.
One third cup all purpose flour.
Salt, pepper to taste.
One quarter butter or margarine.
1 small onion, minced.
3 cups beef bouillon.
Half pound fresh mushrooms, cleaned and sliced thickly.
2 tablespoons dry Sherry.
Standard pastry for a 1-crust 9-inch pie, unbaked.
1 egg, beaten.

The Cooking

Remove the outer membrane of the kidney. Split open and remove any fat and white veins. Cut into 1-inch pieces. Soak in salted cold water to cover for 30 minutes. Drain and wipe dry. Dredge the kidney and steak cubes with the flour, seasoned with salt pepper. Melt the butter in a large saucepan. Add the onion and saute until tender. Push aside.

Add the dredged meats and brown on all sides. Season with salt and pepper. Add the bouillon and stir, cooking until thickened. Cook slowly, covered, about one hour, or until the meats are tender. Add the mushrooms and sherry. Turn into a two quart casserole. Roll out the pastry to fit the top and place over the dish.

Flute the edges and brush the top with beaten egg. Bake in a preheated hot oven for about 20 minutes, or until the pastry is cooked and golden. The pastry may be decorated with leaves made with pastry and placed on the top crust.