The Welsh Oggie is a traditional savory pie hailing from Wales, known for its hearty filling of meat, potatoes, and vegetables encased in a flaky pastry crust. This dish has deep roots in Welsh culinary heritage, dating back to the 18th century, when it was popular among miners and laborers for its filling and portable nature.

Originally, the Oggie was a simple and practical meal, designed to sustain workers during long hours of labor. Over time, it evolved into a beloved comfort food enjoyed by people across Wales and beyond. Today, the Welsh Oggie continues to be a symbol of traditional Welsh cuisine, cherished for its delicious flavors and historical significance.

Ingredients:

- 1 pound (450g) minced beef or lamb

- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1 carrot, peeled and diced

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

- Shortcrust pastry (store-bought or homemade)

Method of Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.

3. Add the minced meat to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

4. Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.

5. Roll out the shortcrust pastry on a floured surface and cut it into circles or rectangles, depending on your preference.

6. Place a spoonful of the meat and vegetable mixture onto each pastry piece, leaving space to seal the edges.

7. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a pie shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

8. Place the assembled pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.

10. Serve the Welsh Oggie pies hot, either as a main dish or a satisfying snack.

Nutrition Value:

1. Minced Beef or Lamb (1 pound / 450g):

- Calories: Approximately 1120 calories

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

- Protein: Approximately 90 grams

- Fat: Approximately 80 grams

- Sodium: Varies based on seasoning

- Cholesterol: Approximately 300 milligrams

- Nutritional Benefits: Rich in protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. However, it's also high in saturated fats and cholesterol, so it's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

2. Potatoes (2 large, peeled and diced):

- Calories: Approximately 340 calories

- Carbohydrates: Approximately 77 grams

- Protein: Approximately 8 grams

- Fat: Approximately 0 grams

- Sodium: Varies based on seasoning

- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

- Nutritional Benefits: Excellent source of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and B vitamins. Potatoes are low in fat and cholesterol-free.

3. Onion (1 finely chopped):

- Calories: Approximately 45 calories

- Carbohydrates: Approximately 11 grams

- Protein: Approximately 1 gram

- Fat: Approximately 0 grams

- Sodium: Approximately 5 milligrams

- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

- Nutritional Benefits: Low in calories and fat, onions are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants.

4. Carrot (1 peeled and diced):

- Calories: Approximately 25 calories

- Carbohydrates: Approximately 6 grams

- Protein: Approximately 0.5 grams

- Fat: Approximately 0 grams

- Sodium: Approximately 42 milligrams

- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

- Nutritional Benefits: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene (which converts to vitamin A), dietary fiber, vitamin K, and potassium. They also contain antioxidants.

5. Salt and Pepper (to taste):

- Calories: Negligible

- Carbohydrates: Negligible

- Protein: Negligible

- Fat: Negligible

- Sodium: Varies based on amount used

- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

- Nutritional Benefits: Sodium (salt) is essential for electrolyte balance, but excessive intake should be avoided. Pepper adds flavor and may have minor antioxidant properties.

6. Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon):

- Calories: Approximately 120 calories

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

- Protein: 0 grams

- Fat: Approximately 14 grams

- Sodium: 0 milligrams

- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

- Nutritional Benefits: Provides healthy fats (unsaturated fats) and may contain vitamin E. Moderation is key due to its calorie density.

7. Shortcrust Pastry (store-bought or homemade):

- Nutritional values vary based on the specific brand or recipe used. Store-bought pastry typically includes flour, butter or shortening, water, and salt.

- Calories: Varies (usually around 100-150 calories per serving)

- Carbohydrates: Varies (mostly from flour)

- Protein: Varies (small amount from flour and fats)

- Fat: Varies (mostly from butter or shortening)

- Sodium: Varies (small amount from salt)

- Cholesterol: Varies (if made with butter)

- Nutritional Benefits: Pastry provides energy from carbohydrates and fats but is generally considered a treat due to its calorie and fat content. Choosing whole-grain pastry or making a healthier homemade version can improve nutritional value.