Pie crust with tomato juice

Tomato Juice Pie Dough Recipe: A Tender Delight for Savory Pies

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Number of Servings: 4 servings of dough (enough for 2 medium pies)

Discover a simple and delicious recipe for pie dough with tomato juice, perfect for adding a touch of originality to your dishes. This tender dough will quickly become your favorite, ideal for a variety of fillings, from sweet ones like apples and pumpkin to savory options.

A Brief History of Pie Dough

Pies have been an essential part of gastronomy throughout the centuries. This tomato juice dough combines the tradition of pies with an innovative twist, bringing a subtle flavor and tender texture. The tomato juice not only provides moisture but also a slight sweetness that pairs perfectly with various fillings. Whether you choose to fill it with sweet apples or aromatic pumpkin, this dough is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

- 12 tablespoons of oil (choose sunflower or olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 10 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 12 tablespoons of tomato juice (freshly made tomato juice is best, but diluted tomato paste is a good alternative)
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda (dissolved)
- Flour as needed (approximately 500-600 g)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth mix. Also, gather the necessary utensils: a large mixing bowl, a wooden spoon, and a clean surface for kneading.

2. Mixing wet ingredients: In the large bowl, add the 12 tablespoons of oil, 10 tablespoons of sugar, and 12 tablespoons of tomato juice. Mix well with a wooden spoon until the sugar completely dissolves into the mixture.

3. Dissolving the baking soda: In a small bowl, add the baking soda and dissolve it with lemon juice (or vinegar). You will notice a fizzy reaction, which is normal. Add this mixture to the bowl with wet ingredients and mix well.

4. Adding flour: Start gradually adding flour while continuously mixing. It's important not to add all the flour at once but to incorporate it gradually until the dough becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. This process may require between 500 and 600 g of flour, depending on the moisture of the tomato juice used.

5. Kneading the dough: Once the dough is formed, transfer it to a clean, floured surface. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Be careful not to add too much flour, as it can make the dough too dense.

6. Resting the dough: Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This will allow the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

7. Rolling out the dough: After the dough has rested, divide it into two or three pieces, depending on the desired size of the pies. On a floured surface, roll out each piece of dough with a rolling pin until it reaches the desired thickness. Ideally, it should be about 3-5 mm.

8. Preparing for baking: Place the rolled-out dough in a pie dish lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with oil. Add your favorite filling and cover with another sheet of dough if you want to make a closed pie. Don’t forget to make a few cuts on the surface of the pie to allow steam to escape during baking.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes or until golden. Check the pie occasionally to ensure it bakes evenly.

10. Cooling and serving: Once the pie is baked, let it cool slightly before cutting. Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, alongside a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of sour cream for a perfect contrast of textures.

Practical Tips

- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a pinch of salt to the dough, which will enhance the flavors.
- You can experiment with various fillings: apples can be flavored with cinnamon, while pumpkin can be enriched with nuts or seeds.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, a filling of spinach and cottage cheese pairs perfectly with this dough.
- To keep the pie fresh for a longer time, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.

Nutritional Benefits

This tomato juice pie dough is a healthier option compared to traditional dough, as tomato juice provides antioxidants and essential vitamins. Additionally, the flour used can be whole grain to add fiber. If you choose fruit or vegetable-based fillings, the pie will become a balanced meal full of nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought tomato juice?
- Yes, but make sure it is of good quality. Freshly made tomato juice will add superior flavor.

2. Can I freeze the dough?
- Yes, you can freeze the dough after kneading. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and use it within a month.

3. What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
- Add a little flour, but be careful not to make it too dense. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

4. What can I serve with the pie?
- The pie pairs well with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or sour cream. A warm beverage like herbal tea perfectly complements the meal.

This tomato juice pie dough is a versatile and easy-to-make recipe that will delight your family and friends. Try it and enjoy the delicious final result!