Potato pie

Potato Pie - A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor

The culinary journey of potato pie takes us into a world of comfort and warm flavors, often found in family meals. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, easily adaptable to personal preferences. The potato pie is perfect for both lunch and dinner, and the combination of ingredients offers an explosion of tastes that will delight any palate.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 500 g flour
- 300 ml lukewarm water (approximately)
- 25 g dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar

*For the filling:*
- 1 kg potatoes
- Oil (for sautéing)
- 5 green onions
- 5 green garlic stalks
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Thyme (to taste)
- Butter (the size of a walnut)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step by step - Preparing the potato pie:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt and sugar. In a separate container, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water and let it sit for a few minutes until it starts to foam. This will activate the yeast, which is essential for a fluffy dough.

2. Kneading the dough:
Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl with the flour and start mixing. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If you have a bread machine, you can use it to knead the dough, making the process simpler. Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp towel and let it rise for 30 minutes in a warm place.

3. Preparing the filling:
In the meantime, peel the potatoes, wash them, and cut them into cubes. Boil them in a pot of salted water with a little oil until they become soft but not fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain the water.

4. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a frying pan, add a little oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they become translucent. This step is essential for adding flavor to your filling. Add the boiled potatoes and mix well. Season with salt, pepper, dill, and thyme to taste. Let the filling cool slightly.

5. Assembling the pie:
After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. Roll out the first sheet of dough to cover the bottom and sides of the dish. Pour in the potato filling and cover with the other sheet of dough. Make sure the edges are well sealed to keep the filling inside.

6. Finishing and baking:
Beat an egg and brush the pie with it. This step will give it a golden and glossy appearance. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the pie for 35-45 minutes or until it is nicely browned.

7. Serving:
Once the pie is baked, let it cool slightly before cutting it. Sprinkle with chopped dill and serve with fresh sour cream. You can also experiment with Greek yogurt or a green salad to add a fresh note.

Useful tips:
- Make sure the potatoes are not overcooked, as they will become too soft and the filling will be watery.
- You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as carrots or zucchini, to diversify the flavor.
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with mushrooms or other vegetables.
- This pie can be frozen, so you can make a double batch and keep it for busy days.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 300-350 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but make sure to adjust the amount of water.

2. How can I reduce cooking time?
You can use pre-cooked potatoes or mashed potatoes to speed up the process.

3. Can this recipe be prepared in advance?
Yes, the pie can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can bake it a few hours before serving.

4. What can I serve with the pie?
It is delicious served with a fresh salad or pickles. A refreshing drink, such as mint tea or natural juice, pairs perfectly.

The potato pie is more than just a meal; it is a cooking experience and an opportunity to gather family and friends. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe will make you feel like a professional chef in the comfort of your own kitchen. Enjoy your meal!