Lenten pumpkin pie

Autumn brings with it a rich palette of aromas and colors, and nothing evokes the magic of this season better than a delicious pumpkin pie. This quick and simple dessert is a perfect choice for the chilly autumn evenings when we want to indulge in a flavorful snack that will fill our hearts with warmth and joy.

In this recipe, we will explore the necessary steps to create a special pumpkin pie with a rich filling and a flaky crust that is sure to impress your loved ones. Let's get started!

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

Ingredients
For the crust:
- 500-550 g flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup oil
- 1/2 cup sparkling water
- 1 packet baking powder

For the filling:
- 1 kg grated pumpkin
- 4-5 tablespoons sugar (adjustable to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons cinnamon (to taste)
- 5 tablespoons semolina
- A handful of ground or coarsely chopped nuts (optional)

Steps for preparation

Step 1: Preparing the pumpkin filling
The first thing we need to do is prepare the pumpkin filling. In a deep skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the grated pumpkin and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the liquid evaporates completely. This is an essential step, as it ensures that the filling will not be too wet, which could affect the texture of the pie.

Once the pumpkin is sautéed, add the sugar (depending on how sweet you prefer), sprinkle in the semolina, cinnamon, and nuts. Mix well to combine the ingredients and let the mixture cool. The aroma of the cinnamon will intensify, bringing an autumn fragrance throughout the kitchen.

Step 2: Preparing the crust
In a large bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. This is an important ingredient that will help the crust rise and become fluffy. Add the sugar, oil, and sparkling water. Knead the ingredients until you obtain a smooth and elastic dough. The dough should not be sticky, but if it is, add a little more flour.

After kneading the dough, cover it with plastic wrap or a towel and let it rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. This will allow the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 3: Assembling the pie
Once the dough has rested, divide it into two equal parts. On a floured work surface, roll out each piece of dough into the desired shape, so that it is slightly larger than the baking tray you are using (usually, a 30x40 cm tray is perfect). A helpful trick is to roll out the dough directly on the parchment paper, as this will simplify the transfer to the tray.

Place the first sheet of dough in the tray, along with the parchment paper. Prick the dough with a fork in several places to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking. Now, sprinkle a tablespoon of semolina over the entire surface of the dough; this step will help prevent the filling from soaking into the dough.

Spread the cooled pumpkin filling evenly over the dough, then sprinkle another tablespoon of semolina on top of the filling. This will add an extra layer of protection between the dough and the filling.

Finally, roll out the second sheet of dough and carefully transfer it over the filling. Gently press the edges to seal the pie and prick it again with a fork. Now, the pie is ready to be baked!

Step 4: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the pie for about 30-40 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the dough is well baked. It is important to check the pie from time to time, as each oven bakes differently.

Step 5: Serving
Once the pie is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. You can serve it plain or with a drizzle of sour cream, vanilla ice cream, or even with a caramel sauce for an extra touch of flavor.

Chef's tip
If you want to experiment, try adding a little ginger or nutmeg to the pumpkin filling for an even more complex flavor. You can also replace the nuts with almonds or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional benefits
Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and the immune system. It also contains antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body. When combined with nuts, this dessert becomes a source of protein and healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, but make sure to choose a product without additives or added sugar to keep the recipe healthy.
- How do I store the pie? You can keep the pie covered at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for a longer period.
- Can I freeze the pie? Absolutely! It can be frozen before baking. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Ideal pairings
This pumpkin pie pairs perfectly with a fruit tea or a cup of hot chocolate. You can also accompany it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce to enhance the sweet and spiced flavor.

Conclusion
A pumpkin pie is not just a dessert, but an experience that brings family and friends together around the table. The memories created around this recipe will surely remain in the hearts of your loved ones. Experiment, adapt, and most importantly, enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen. May each slice be filled with joy and autumn aromas!