Apple pie (vegan)

Vegan Apple Pie: A Delicious and Affordable Recipe

Apple pie is a classic dessert that evokes thoughts of warm autumn days when apples are in full season and their sweet and tart aroma entices our senses. This vegan apple pie recipe is not only delicious but also extremely budget-friendly, making it perfect for days when we want to indulge without breaking the rules of fasting.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 250 ml water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 pinch of baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 250 g margarine (or oil, for an even healthier option)

For the filling:
- 1 kg apples (choose sweet and aromatic apples)
- 100 g sugar (can be adjusted depending on the sweetness of the apples)
- Cinnamon (to taste, but I recommend 1-2 tablespoons)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling the apples, then wash them well and grate them. This step is essential as grated apples will cook evenly and release their natural juice, giving the filling an intense flavor.

2. Sautéing the apples: In a deep pan, place the grated apples along with the sugar. Sauté over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the apple juice reduces and becomes a caramelized mixture. This process will intensify the flavors. Add cinnamon to taste, mixing well. Allow the mixture to cool.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt, baking powder, and lemon zest. These ingredients will give the dough a fresh and aromatic flavor. Add the diced margarine and rub it with your fingertips until you achieve a sandy texture. This step is important to ensure a flaky pie.

4. Forming the dough: Gradually add the water, kneading well until you obtain an elastic and non-sticky dough. If the dough becomes too sticky, you can add a little more flour. Divide the dough into two equal parts and form two balls.

5. Rolling out the dough: On a floured surface, roll each ball of dough into a thin sheet. Make sure the sheets are the size of your baking tray, leaving a bit of edge to seal the pie.

6. Assembling the pie: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the first sheet of dough in the tray, spread the sautéed apple mixture evenly, then cover with the second sheet of dough. Gently press the edges to seal the pie.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and bake the pie for about 40 minutes or until golden. It is advisable to monitor it in the last few minutes of baking to achieve a perfect crust.

8. Serving: Allow the pie to cool slightly, then sprinkle powdered sugar on top. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream (if you are not fasting) or a cup of aromatic tea.

Useful tips:

- Choosing apples: For this recipe, sweet and aromatic apples are the most suitable. Golden Delicious or Fuji apples are ideal, but you can also combine different types for a complex flavor.
- Cinnamon: This not only adds flavor but also has health benefits, possessing anti-inflammatory properties and being a powerful antioxidant.
- Variations: You can add nuts or raisins to the filling for a crunchy texture and extra flavor. Additionally, instead of sugar, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, depending on your preferences.
- Dough care: If you want a flakier pie, you can use oil instead of margarine. This ingredient will make the dough easier to handle and less dense.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This vegan apple pie is a relatively healthy choice, with approximately 250 calories per serving, depending on the amount of sugar and type of margarine used. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, contributing to healthy digestion and strengthening the immune system.

Ideal for a weekend dessert or to impress guests, this apple pie recipe is not only simple but also full of memories and stories. It can be paired with a warm drink, such as herbal tea or mulled wine, for an absolutely delicious culinary experience.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can experiment with pears, peaches, or plums. Just make sure to adjust the sugar amount based on the sweetness of the fruits.
- How can I store the pie? It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can also be consumed after a few days, but it is best fresh.

Enjoy every bite of this vegan apple pie and don't hesitate to share the recipe with your loved ones! It is a wonderful way to bring a touch of warmth and flavor to your days.