Rustic Savory Pie Recipe
Category: Savory Pies
Serves: 8
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Manitoba flour | 500g |
| Whole milk | 125g |
| Water | 125g |
| Butter (softened) | 60g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 40g |
| Dry yeast | 4g |
| Fine salt | 10g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Fontina cheese | 200g |
| Speck (smoked ham) | 150g |
| Egg | 1 |
| Whole milk (for egg wash) | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by making the dough for your rustic pie. Start by dissolving the salt in warm water in a small bowl. Next, sift the flour into a large mixing bowl, creating a light base for your dough. Gradually pour in the milk, adding the sugar and dry yeast. Stir in the salted water, ensuring all ingredients begin to blend together. Now, add the softened butter, cutting it into small pieces and incorporating it into the mixture.
Use your hands or a stand mixer to knead the dough. If using a stand mixer, start with the paddle attachment at medium speed to mix the ingredients, then switch to the dough hook to continue kneading. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a clean bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours. The dough should double in size during this time, which is a sign that the yeast is working its magic.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, remove the cover and gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough in half, setting one portion aside for the top of the pie. With a rolling pin, roll out the first half of the dough on a lightly floured surface until it reaches about half a centimeter thick.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Carefully transfer the rolled dough to a baking dish, ensuring it covers the bottom and edges of the dish completely. Begin layering the filling: first, place thin slices of speck on top of the dough, followed by generous slices of fontina cheese.
Take the second half of the dough and roll it out in the same way as the first. Lay this sheet of dough over the filled bottom layer, pressing the edges to seal the pie. Use your fingers to pinch and create a decorative, slightly raised border around the pie.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Baking
In a small bowl, beat the egg and add one tablespoon of whole milk. Mix well until smooth. Brush the egg wash over the top of the pie, ensuring an even coat to give the crust a golden finish.
Next, poke a few holes with a fork on the surface of the pie to allow steam to escape during baking. Preheat your oven to 180Β°C (355Β°F) for a conventional oven or 160Β°C (320Β°F) if using a fan-assisted oven.
Bake the rustic pie for about 45 minutes, or 35 minutes if using a fan oven. The crust should be golden brown and crisp, while the inside remains warm and cheesy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pie is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve it warm, and enjoy the rich flavors of the melted fontina cheese and smoky speck. This rustic savory pie is perfect for any occasion, whether itβs a family dinner or a special gathering with friends.
Tips for Success:
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or ham, such as Gruyère or prosciutto, for a unique twist.
- For an extra crispy crust, preheat the baking dish in the oven before placing the dough in it.
- To make this recipe even more flavorful, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the filling.
Enjoy making this rustic pie, and remember, the beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its ingredients. The tender dough, savory speck, and melting cheese come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
This savory pie is a wonderful way to embrace the rustic charm of traditional Italian baking, bringing a little taste of the countryside into your kitchen. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a snack with a glass of wine, itβs sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
