Beef and Ale Pie

Instructions

1. 1
   Season beef with salt and pepper, then dust with flour. Heat oil in a large casserole and brown the beef in batches. Set aside.
2. 2
   Sauté the diced onion in the same pot until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. 3
   Return beef to the pot, add carrots, mushrooms, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir well.
4. 4
   Pour in the ale and beef stock, ensuring the beef is mostly covered. Bring to a simmer.
5. 5
   Cover and cook in the oven at 160°C for 90 minutes, or until the beef is very tender.
6. 6
   Transfer the beef mixture to a pie dish and let cool slightly. Remove bay leaves.
7. 7
   Preheat oven to 200°C. Place pastry over the pie filling, seal edges, and trim excess.
8. 8
   Brush the pastry with beaten egg and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
9. 9
   Rest for 5 minutes before serving.