Quince Pie

Delicious Quince Pie: A Flavorful and Comforting Recipe

We invite you to discover a recipe that combines the flavor of quinces with a crumbly texture of the dough. Quince pie is a classic dessert, cherished by many generations, reminding us of moments spent with family around the table, with aromas that evoke pleasant memories. This simple and accessible recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a relaxing afternoon at home to a special celebration.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:
- 3-4 quinces (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 300 g sugar (preferably white sugar)
- 150 ml oil
- 50 g butter
- 100 ml mineral water or soda
- 400 g flour
- 1 egg
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 packet of baking powder
- Cinnamon (to taste)
- Grated zest of 1 lemon (for added flavor)

Preparing the quince pie:

Step 1: Preparing the quinces
The first essential step is to take care of the quinces. Wash the quinces well, then peel and grate them using a large grater. Place them in a bowl and add a little lemon juice, which will prevent oxidation and enhance the aroma. Mix well and add 200 g of sugar. Let the quinces sit for a few minutes to release their juice.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
In a pot, heat the oil together with the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the salt, 100 g of sugar, the mineral water (or soda), and the egg. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually add it to the oil mixture. Knead gently until you obtain a soft dough, but not too sticky. If necessary, you can adjust the amount of flour, but be careful not to make it too tough.

Step 3: Dividing the dough
Divide the dough into two equal parts. Using a rolling pin, roll each piece of dough into a thin sheet, being careful not to tear it.

Step 4: Assembling the pie
Grease a baking dish with butter and dust it with flour or line it with parchment paper. Place the first sheet of dough in the dish, then sprinkle a little breadcrumbs (this will absorb excess moisture and prevent the dough from becoming soggy). Add the quince filling, ensuring it is well distributed. Sprinkle a little cinnamon and grated lemon zest for an intense and aromatic flavor.

Place the second sheet of dough on top and use a fork to prick it, allowing steam to escape during baking.

Step 5: Baking the pie
Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (about 180°C). Bake the pie for 35 minutes, or until it turns golden and fills the house with a delightful aroma. When done, remove the pie from the oven and drizzle it with the juice released from the quinces, making it even more moist and flavorful.

Step 6: Cooling and serving
Let the pie cool slightly before cutting it. You can serve it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which will contrast perfectly with the intense flavors of the quinces.

Useful tips:
- The quinces should be well-ripened, but not overly soft, to retain their texture in the filling.
- If you want to diversify, you can add ground nuts or raisins to the filling for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
- This pie pairs perfectly with green tea or dry white wine, enhancing the natural flavors of the quinces.

Nutritional benefits:
Quinces are an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants, having anti-inflammatory properties and being beneficial for digestion. Moreover, this pie is not only delicious but also a relatively healthy option for a dessert, with a moderate content of sugar and fats.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of quinces?
Yes, you can experiment with apples or pears, but you will need to adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of the fruits.

2. How long can I keep the pie?
The quince pie keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can make a vegan version using oil instead of butter and a substitute for the egg.

The quince pie is not just a dessert, but a true culinary experience that will transport you to cherished memories. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this recipe is sure to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Happy cooking!