Introducing the delectable Garlic Pie, a savory marvel that tantalizes taste buds and transports you to the heart of European culinary tradition. This dish, perfectly balanced with flavors and textures, is a testament to the artistry of combining simple ingredients to create gastronomic wonders. With a prep time of 24 hours and a cook time of 1 hour, this recipe ensures that every element is infused with rich flavors, making it ideal for a weeknight indulgence or a special occasion feast.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 12 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- A pinch of salt
- 5 garlic cloves
- 1 1/2 cups of pecorino romano cheese
- 1/2 cup of pancetta
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 cup of raisins
- 10 saffron threads
- 1 teaspoon of salt (for filling)
- 1 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 egg (for glazing)
Instructions:
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Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and unsalted butter, using your fingers to blend them until they resemble a coarse meal.
- Add a pinch of salt and gradually incorporate enough ice water to form an elastic dough.
- Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
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Prepare the Garlic Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a saucepan, bring 1 quart of water to a boil.
- Add the garlic cloves and cook for 15 minutes until they are softened.
- Drain the garlic and rinse it under cool water.
- Crush the cooked garlic cloves and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Fold in the grated pecorino romano cheese, diced pancetta, raisins, saffron threads, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Assemble the Pie:
- Divide the chilled dough into two equal portions and roll each portion into a 1/2-inch thick disk.
- Butter a 10-inch pie pan and line it with one of the dough disks.
- Spoon the prepared garlic filling into the pie crust, mounding it generously.
- Cover the filling with the second disk of dough, sealing the edges with your fingers and trimming off any excess dough.
- Beat the remaining egg and use it to glaze the top of the pie, adding a glossy finish.
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Bake to Perfection:
- Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the crust turns golden brown and crisp.
- Once baked to perfection, remove the garlic pie from the oven and transfer it to a serving platter.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the garlic pie hot, allowing its aromatic flavors to entice your senses and captivate your palate.
- This savory delight is perfect for sharing with loved ones, accompanied by a side salad or your favorite roasted vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 323.1
- Total Fat: 20.1g
- Saturated Fat: 11.9g
- Cholesterol: 138.8mg
- Sodium: 330.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 29.1g
- Fiber: 1.4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 6.9g
Cook’s Tips:
- For a richer flavor, consider using aged pecorino romano cheese.
- To save time, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight.
- Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor profile of the garlic pie to your liking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for a delicious next-day meal.
Indulge in the irresistible allure of Garlic Pie, a culinary masterpiece that promises to elevate your dining experience and leave a lasting impression on your guests. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or showcased as the star of a festive gathering, this recipe embodies the essence of European cuisine and invites you to savor every moment of its creation.
