Meat pie

Savory Meat and Mushroom Pie - An Unforgettable Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6

When it comes to pies, every bite is an explosion of flavor. This meat and mushroom pie recipe is perfect for a weekend meal or to impress guests. With a golden crust and rich filling, it combines tradition with innovation. Whether you're an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result.

The History of Meat Pies
Meat pies have a rich history, found in many cultures around the world. Over time, recipes have adapted based on available ingredients and local preferences. They are often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings, where the delicious aroma fills the entire house, bringing a sense of warmth and conviviality.

Necessary Ingredients
- 500 g ground pork
- 2 medium onions
- ½ bell pepper (preferably red or green)
- 150 g canned mushrooms (or fresh, as preferred)
- 500 ml tomato juice
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- 1 glass of dry white wine
- 2 sheets of puff pastry
- ½ glass of olive oil
- 4 eggs
- 100 g semolina

Step-by-step Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by peeling the onion. Wash it well and chop it finely. This will provide a flavorful base for your filling. Wash the bell pepper and dice it. If using fresh mushrooms, clean them and slice them thinly.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the bell pepper and mushrooms, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Let the vegetables sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender.

3. Adding the Meat
Now it's time to add the ground meat. Mix well so it combines with the vegetables. Let the mixture cook for 5 minutes. During this time, the meat will start to change color and absorb the flavors of the vegetables.

4. Deglazing with Wine
Pour in the glass of dry white wine. This will not only enhance the flavor of the filling but will also help to remove any residues stuck to the pan. Let the wine evaporate by half.

5. Adding the Tomato Juice
Once the wine has evaporated, add the tomato juice. Mix well and season with salt and white pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the liquid reduces and the filling becomes thicker. A well-cooked filling is the secret to a delicious pie.

6. Cooling the Filling
Once the filling is ready, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool. This step is essential as it will prevent the pastry from becoming soggy when the warm filling is added.

7. Preparing the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, beat the 4 eggs and add the semolina. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. When the filling has completely cooled, add it to the bowl with the eggs and semolina, gently mixing to combine the ingredients.

8. Assembling the Pie
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a baking tray, brush one sheet of puff pastry with a little olive oil. Spread the meat filling evenly over the pastry sheet, then cover with the second sheet of pastry. Make sure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

9. Finishing the Pie
Beat one egg and use it to brush the surface of the pie, which will give it a golden and shiny crust. You can make a few small cuts in the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.

10. Baking the Pie
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy. The aroma that will spread throughout the house will make you eagerly await to savor it!

11. Serving
Let the pie cool slightly before cutting it. Serve it warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce to balance the rich flavors of the filling. It is a dish that can be enjoyed both warm and cold, making it perfect for family meals or a picnic.

Useful Tips
- If you want a lighter version, you can use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork.
- Experiment with different types of mushrooms or add herbs like dill or parsley to customize the recipe to your taste.
- If you don't have white wine, you can omit it or replace it with a splash of white wine vinegar, which will add a note of acidity.
- Make sure the filling is not too wet; if necessary, you can add more semolina to absorb the excess liquid.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pie dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, pie dough is an excellent alternative, but it will provide a different texture.

2. Can I prepare the pie in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and assemble it an hour before baking.

3. What drinks pair well with the pie?
People prefer dry white wines or, for a more rustic taste, a blonde beer. Also, a flavored fruit tea is an excellent choice.

The meat and mushroom pie is a delicacy that brings joy and warmth to every meal. Don't hesitate to try it and share this recipe with friends and family! It will surely become one of your favorite dishes!