Mushroom pie

Mushroom pie is a traditional recipe, a true culinary treasure that has delighted generations. This pie, with its rich flavors and delicious texture, is perfect for a family meal or to impress friends at a party. In this guide, we will explore each step of preparing this delicacy, sharing useful tips and tricks to achieve a perfect result.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2-3 tablespoons of water (optional)

For the mushroom filling:
- 2-3 cans of mushrooms or 1 kg of fresh mushrooms
- 2 onions
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

For topping the pie:
- 200 g sour cream
- 3 eggs

Recipe history:
Mushroom pie has deep roots in culinary traditions. Over time, it has been adapted and reinterpreted in different cultures, each giving it a unique imprint. Mushrooms, the main ingredient of this recipe, have been used for centuries in gastronomy due to their umami flavor and versatility. They can be found in forests around the world, and using them in pies is an excellent way to transform a simple ingredient into a sophisticated delicacy.

Step by step in preparing the mushroom pie:

1. Preparing the mushrooms:
- If using fresh mushrooms, start by washing them under cold running water to remove dirt. Slice them thinly. If you choose canned mushrooms, make sure to drain them well.
- In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and let them sauté for 5-7 minutes until they release their water and become slightly browned.

2. Adding the onion:
- Finely chop the onions and add them to the skillet. Mix well and let them sauté together with the mushrooms for 10-15 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If you prefer a finer filling, you can use a food processor to chop the mushroom and onion mixture.

3. Preparing the dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Add the eggs and oil, mixing with a spatula or with your hands until the ingredients combine.
- If the dough is too dry, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of water, depending on the desired consistency. When the dough becomes elastic and homogeneous, divide it into two equal parts and form two balls.

4. Rolling out the dough sheets:
- On a floured surface, roll out the first ball of dough into a thin sheet, large enough to cover the bottom of a baking tray. Transfer the sheet to the greased tray, making sure to cover the edges well.

5. Filling the pie:
- Spread the mushroom and onion filling evenly over the dough sheet in the tray. Spread the mixture well, ensuring each portion is full of flavor.

6. Covering the pie:
- Roll out the second sheet of dough and cover the filling. Gently press the edges to seal the pie. Use a knife to cut the pie into squares or diamonds, even before baking. This will help with even baking and make it easier to serve later.

7. Preparing the sour cream mixture:
- In a bowl, beat the 3 eggs together with the sour cream. Pour this mixture evenly over the pie. This will add a creamy and delicious touch at the end.

8. Baking the pie:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the pie becomes golden and crispy. You will know it is ready when a delicious aroma of mushrooms and onions spreads throughout the house.

9. Garnishing and serving:
- After removing the pie from the oven, you can sprinkle some grated cheese on top if desired. Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting. Serve the pie warm, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with herbs, for a balanced and tasty meal.

Tips and variations:
- You can add other ingredients to the filling, such as spinach, cottage cheese, or even minced meat, to create a rich and hearty variant.
- If you don't have sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt or liquid cream to achieve a similar result.

Nutritional benefits:
Mushroom pie is not only delicious but also nutritious. Mushrooms contain B vitamins and minerals such as selenium, which help strengthen the immune system. Onions add essential antioxidants, while eggs and sour cream provide valuable proteins necessary for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen mushrooms?
Yes, you can use frozen mushrooms, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking.
- How can I store the pie?
The pie stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and to reheat, you can place it in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

This mushroom pie is not just a simple dish, but a culinary experience that will bring joy to your tables. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, its unmistakable taste will win you over every time. Enjoy your meal!