Rustic carrot pie

Rustic Carrot Pie: A Sweet and Healthy Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Introduction:

If you're looking for a quick and simple dessert recipe, rustic carrot pie is the perfect choice for you. This recipe was inspired by a cooking show, but I've made some modifications to give it a personal touch. Combining the sweetness of carrots with the freshness of green apples and the enticing aroma of cinnamon, this dessert is sure to become one of your favorites. The crispy crust and flavorful filling come together harmoniously, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.

Necessary ingredients:

*For the crust:*
- 2.5 cups of flour
- 1 cup of butter (cubed, at room temperature)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of warm water

*For the filling:*
- 1 kg of young carrots (peeled and grated)
- 2-3 green apples (peeled and grated)
- A handful of raisins (washed)
- 2 teaspoons of flour or breadcrumbs (to absorb moisture)
- 3-4 teaspoons of sugar (you can adjust to taste)
- 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (for greasing the pan)

Preparing the crust:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients for the crust. Make sure the butter is soft but not melted, so it incorporates better into the flour.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt. Add the butter and mix with your fingers or a pastry mixer until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. This is an important step to get a flaky crust.

3. Adding water: Start gradually adding the warm water. It is essential not to pour all the water at once; this way, you can control the consistency of the dough. Mix well until the ingredients come together, but do not over-knead the dough. This helps maintain the crispy texture.

4. Resting: Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature while you prepare the filling.

Preparing the filling:

1. Grating the vegetables: Peel and grate the carrots and apples. This step will not only intensify the flavors but also help to even out the filling.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the grated carrots, grated apples, raisins, sugar, cinnamon, and flour/breadcrumbs. The flour or breadcrumbs help absorb moisture, preventing the filling from being too wet, which could affect the crust.

3. Cooking the filling: Place the mixture in a pot with a lid and let it soften over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This will allow the flavors to develop and make the filling softer. After about 10-15 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let the mixture cool.

Assembling the pie:

1. Dividing the dough: After the dough has rested, divide it into two equal parts. Use a lightly floured work surface to roll out each part into a thin sheet.

2. Preparing the pan: Grease a baking dish with oil and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Carefully place the first sheet of dough in the dish, ensuring it slightly overhangs the edges.

3. Adding the filling: Pour the carrot and apple filling over the first sheet of dough, spreading it evenly.

4. Covering the pie: Place the second sheet of dough over the filling. Prick it in several places with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

Baking:

1. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). This step is essential for achieving even baking.

2. Baking the pie: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until it turns golden and crispy. The aroma will fill the entire house, and it will be hard to resist the temptation!

3. Powdered sugar: Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant and sweet finish.

Serving and variations:

Rustic carrot pie is served warm, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream. These add a creamy touch that perfectly complements the sweetness of the filling. You can also experiment with various additions, such as nuts or seeds, for an extra texture and flavor.

If you want to try a healthier version, you can substitute butter with coconut oil and sugar with honey or maple syrup. You can also use tart apples to balance the sweetness of the filling.

Nutritional benefits:

Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, essential for eye health. Apples add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. Raisins, rich in iron and antioxidants, provide an extra boost of energy and delicious flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of vegetables? Of course! You can replace carrots with pumpkin or even beetroot for a pie with vibrant color.

2. How long can the pie be kept? It can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

3. Can I freeze the pie? Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

4. What drinks pair well with the pie? A cup of herbal tea or a sweet white wine are excellent choices to accompany this delicious dessert.

With this rustic carrot pie recipe, I invite you to enjoy the moments spent in the kitchen, exploring the natural flavors and aromas of the ingredients. So, put on your apron, gather your friends or family, and prepare this delicacy that will bring smiles to everyone's faces!