The Kiwi Minced Beef and Cheese Savory Scrolls are more than just a recipe; they’re a culinary love letter to the flavors of New Zealand, elegantly reimagined in a convenient and portable form. Inspired by the iconic Kiwi meat pie, a staple beloved for its rich, hearty filling and flaky pastry, this recipe takes a creative detour by transforming the traditional concept into delightful scrolls. These savory scrolls celebrate the comforting essence of a New Zealand classic while incorporating modern versatility, making them perfect for busy lunches, on-the-go snacks, or a centerpiece for casual gatherings.
The inspiration for this recipe stems from the deep connection New Zealanders have with their cuisine. Meat pies are a cultural cornerstone, found everywhere from baking competitions to local bakeries and even rugby match concessions. In this dish, I sought to honor that iconic comfort food while creating something approachable and adaptable for today’s fast-paced lifestyles. The scroll format not only makes them easy to serve and share but also allows for an irresistible visual appeal. With their golden, spiral structure, these scrolls feel special yet completely easygoing—a reflection of the laid-back Kiwi culinary ethos.
At the heart of this recipe is the filling, where high-quality, grass-fed minced beef showcases New Zealand’s reputation for exceptional meats. When combined with onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste, it creates a robust and flavorful base. The tomato paste adds depth and a hint of acidity that balances the richness of the beef, while the Worcestershire sauce elevates the umami profile. For the finishing flourish, sharp cheddar cheese melts into the filling, providing the perfect creamy counterpoint and creating that signature savory indulgence. Cheddar is the cheese of choice here, aligning with the preferences of Kiwi recipes, where it’s often celebrated for its tangy, bold character.
The dough base plays a critical supporting role in making these scrolls comforting yet light. Modeled after the flaky crust of a traditional pie but simplified into an easy-to-handle dough, it showcases buttery, tender layers enriched with just the right hint of salt. Its soft texture serves as the perfect canvas to highlight the savory filling, rolling it all into a compact, wholesome bite.
A final touch of milk-brushed pastry and a sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a delightful texture, completing these scrolls with toasty accents. While optional, the sesame seeds also nod to global influences commonly seen in modern Kiwi dishes, where local tradition often melds with international culinary trends.
These scrolls encourage creativity, as they can be customized to suit diverse preferences. For those looking to change things up, additional spices like oregano or a pinch of chili flakes can be included to amplify flavor. Vegetarians aren’t left out either—plant-based mince swaps seamlessly into the recipe for a delicious meat-free alternative.
The Kiwi Minced Beef and Cheese Savory Scrolls encapsulate the spirit of New Zealand—hearty, hospitable, and brimming with flavor. They are a modern interpretation of a beloved classic, perfect for bringing people together over a shared plate of simple yet thoughtful food.
Kiwi Minced Beef and Cheese Savory Scrolls
Ingredients
Savory Scrolls Base
2 cups all purpose flour (plain flour Australia and UK) - plus extra for dusting
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
â…“ cup butter - cold and diced
¾ cup milk
Filling
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion - finely chopped
2 cloves garlic - minced
500 grams ground beef (minced beef) - grass-fed preferred
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ cup tomato paste
1 cup cheddar cheese - grated
Topping
- 1 tablespoon milk - for brushing
1 tablespoon sesame seeds - optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the diced butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Gradually stir in the milk to form a soft dough. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead briefly until smooth. Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1 cm (0.4 inches) thick.
- For the filling, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Increase the heat, add the minced beef, and cook until browned.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste. Cook for another 5 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to cool slightly before spreading evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese over the meat mixture. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 8 equal pieces and place on the prepared tray.
- Brush each scroll with milk and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Serve warm.
