Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie

🥧🌶️ Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie: A Spicy Twist on a Classic 🌶️🥧

What is it?
Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie is a unique variation of the classic pumpkin pie, adding a spicy and smoky kick to the traditional sweet and creamy dessert. It combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with the complex, earthy notes of ancho chilies, creating a delightful fusion of sweet and heat.

History:
The history of Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie can be traced back to the fusion of culinary traditions in the Americas. Pumpkin pie, a staple in American Thanksgiving dinners, has been enjoyed for centuries. Ancho chilies, on the other hand, have deep roots in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine. The combination of these two ingredients likely emerged as a creative twist in kitchens where culinary boundaries were blurred. It’s a testament to the diverse and innovative nature of food culture.

Components:
To make Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie, you’ll need the following components:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 dried ancho chilies, soaked, seeded, and chopped
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie:

1. Prepare the Ancho Chilies: Start by soaking the dried ancho chilies in hot water for about 20 minutes. Once they’re soft, remove the seeds and chop them finely.

2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

3. Prepare the Pie Crust: Roll out your pie crust and place it into a pie dish. You can use a store-bought crust or make one from scratch.

4. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, heavy cream, chopped ancho chilies, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.

5. Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.

6. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-55 minutes. The pie is done when the center is set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack. Once it’s cooled, you can refrigerate it for a few hours to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie, including preparation and baking, is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of your pie crust.

Enjoy your Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie! 🌶️🥧 It’s a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of fall with a spicy twist. Perfect for those who love a little heat in their sweets! 🔥

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes:

Nutrition Facts (Per Slice, assuming 8 slices):

• Calories: Around 300-350 calories per slice
• Total Fat: 15-20 grams
• Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams
• Cholesterol: 75-100 mg
• Sodium: 200-250 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Sugars: 20-25 grams
• Protein: 4-5 grams
• Vitamin A: 100-150% Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 2-4% DV
• Calcium: 6-8% DV
• Iron: 8-10% DV

Health Information:

1. Rich in Vitamin A: Pumpkin is a great source of vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. A slice of Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie can provide a significant portion of your daily vitamin A needs.

2. Moderate Sugar Content: While Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie contains sugars from both the pumpkin and added sugars, it’s not excessively high in sugar. However, it’s essential to consume sweets in moderation, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake.

3. Good Source of Fiber: The pumpkin in the pie contributes some dietary fiber, which can aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness.

4. Moderate Protein: This dessert contains a modest amount of protein, which is essential for overall body function and muscle maintenance.

5. Calorie Considerations: The calorie content per slice is moderate, making it a reasonable indulgence for special occasions. If you’re calorie-conscious, you can consider smaller portion sizes.

6. Fat Content: The pie does contain a moderate amount of fat, primarily from the heavy cream and pie crust. While fat is an essential nutrient, it’s advisable to consume it in moderation for a balanced diet.

7. Sodium Content: The sodium content is relatively low, but it’s always a good idea to monitor sodium intake, especially if you have specific dietary restrictions.

Remember that individual serving sizes may vary, so be mindful of portion control. Ancho Chile Pumpkin Pie can be a delicious treat for occasional enjoyment, especially during the fall and holiday season, but it’s best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.