Dobrogea pumpkin pie

Dobrogea pumpkin pie is a delight that combines tradition and natural flavors in a simple yet special recipe. This pie is perfect to enjoy on cool autumn evenings or as a dessert at festive meals. Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step, so you can take home unforgettable flavors and impress all your loved ones.

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

- For the dough:
- 1 cube (40 g) of fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 12 tablespoons of lukewarm water
- A pinch of salt
- 20 tablespoons of oil (2 tablespoons for the dough, the rest for the filling and greasing the pan)
- Flour (approximately 500 g, as needed)

- For the filling:
- 1/2 pumpkin (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 2 teaspoons of cinnamon
- 2-3 tablespoons of powdered sugar (for sprinkling on top)

Step 1: Preparing the dough

Start by activating the yeast. Rub the cube of yeast with 1 teaspoon of sugar until it becomes liquid. This is essential for achieving a fluffy dough. Gradually add the lukewarm water and mix well. Salt is an important ingredient that will enhance the flavor of the dough, so don't skip it!

In a large bowl, combine the activated yeast with 12 tablespoons of oil and gradually add the flour, mixing until you obtain a firm dough. When it becomes hard to mix, knead it by hand for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process is essential for developing the gluten and achieving a perfect texture.

Step 2: Creating the composition

In another bowl, mix the remaining oil (8 tablespoons) with about 100 g of flour until you obtain a mixture with a consistency similar to sour cream. This will add a delicious layer of moisture to your pie.

Once finished, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out and will improve its texture.

Step 3: Preparing the pumpkin

Meanwhile, clean the pumpkin of seeds and skin. If you choose to use frozen pumpkin, make sure it has fully thawed before using. Grate the pumpkin and sauté it briefly in a pan with 1-2 tablespoons of oil until it becomes soft. Add the cinnamon and mix well. This step will enhance the flavor of the pumpkin and provide a rich taste to your pie.

Step 4: Assembling the pie

Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin sheet of about 4-5 mm. Place the first sheet in the greased pan, then evenly spread the pumpkin filling. Cover with the second sheet, which you will prick in several places with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 5: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the pie for 30 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy. This is the perfect time to enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 6: Serving

Once cooled, slice the pie and sprinkle powdered sugar on top. This adds a pleasant contrast between sweet and pumpkin flavors. Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, alongside a scoop of Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Useful tips

- Filling variations: You can experiment with adding nuts, raisins, or even chocolate for a more decadent touch.
- Storage: The pie keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days, but it's also delicious when reheated.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of Dobrogea pie contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the portion and ingredients. Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of pumpkin?
Yes, any sweet pumpkin will work, but Hokkaido or butternut squash are excellent options.

2. What can I do if I don't have fresh yeast?
You can use dry yeast, making sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package.

3. How can I improve the texture of the dough?
Make sure to use good quality flour and knead the dough enough to develop the gluten.

4. Can the pie be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the pie before baking it. Just make sure to wrap it well so it doesn't dry out.

This Dobrogea pumpkin pie is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings back memories of family moments filled with warmth and joy. Whether you enjoy it in silence or share it with loved ones, every bite will be a true indulgence. Enjoy your meal!