Apple Pie Mama Lucia

Apple Pie "Mama Lucia"

When it comes to desserts that remind us of the warmth of home, the "Mama Lucia" apple pie certainly takes center stage. This recipe, which I discovered in a quaint inn in southern Italy, is a true homage to the culinary tradition of the region. I can almost smell the aroma of baked apples and cinnamon in the air every time I think of it. It's a simple dessert to prepare, yet it exudes refinement and love. Let's see together how we can recreate this culinary masterpiece in our own kitchen!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the dough
- 300 g flour (ideally type 000 for a fine texture)
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin oil adds a special flavor)
- A pinch of salt

For the filling
- 1.5 kg apples (preferably varieties like Golden or Granny Smith for a sweet-sour contrast)
- 200 g sugar (can be adjusted based on the sweetness of the apples)
- 80 g butter (melted, for a rich taste)
- 50 g raisins (optional, but recommended for a sweet note)
- 50 g pine nuts (toasted to enhance the flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Zest of one lemon (for an extra freshness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough
1. In a large bowl, sift the flour and add a pinch of salt. This will ensure an even texture.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the egg and olive oil. Mix with a fork to combine the ingredients.
3. Start adding cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. It's important not to overdo it with the water; the dough should not be sticky.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, brush it with a little olive oil, and let it rest in a cool, dark place for 30 minutes. This process will help the gluten relax, making it easier to roll out.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling
1. Peel the apples, remove the cores, and slice them thinly. If you prefer, you can also grate them for a finer texture.
2. In a bowl, mix the apples with the sugar, cinnamon, lemon zest, and raisins (if using). Let them sit for 10 minutes to release their juices.

Step 3: Assembling the Pie
1. On a clean surface dusted with flour or on a sheet of parchment paper, roll out the dough into a thin sheet, being careful not to tear it.
2. Brush the dough sheet with the melted butter, then evenly distribute the apple mixture.
3. Sprinkle the pine nuts over the apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
4. Using the parchment paper or a cloth, carefully roll the pie. Place it in a baking dish lined with parchment paper and brush it again with the melted butter on top.

Step 4: Baking
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Bake the pie for 30 minutes or until golden and crispy. The aroma that will fill your kitchen is simply divine!

Serving
The "Mama Lucia" apple pie can be served warm or cold. Add a touch of elegance by dusting powdered sugar on top, if desired. It is delicious alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of fresh cream, which will add a creamy texture to this refined dessert.

Nutritional Information
This pie has a relatively high calorie content, around 250 kcal per serving, but it is rich in antioxidants due to the apples and contains healthy fats from the pine nuts. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, making this pie not only a delicious dessert but also one with nutritional benefits.

Tips and Variations
- Apple Variations: Experiment with different apple varieties to achieve various flavors. Some apples are sweeter, while others are more tart, which can change the flavor profile of the pie.
- Additions: You can add chopped nuts or almonds alongside the pine nuts for an extra texture.
- Spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for an even more complex flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of dough? Yes, you can use puff pastry or tart dough, but make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
- How can I store the pie? The pie stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days, but the taste is best when freshly made.

Conclusion
The "Mama Lucia" apple pie is more than just a dessert; it is a story, a tradition, and a symbol of family love. Whether you enjoy it on warm summer days or cool autumn evenings, each bite will bring you closer to the warmth and goodness with which it was created. Enjoy your meal!