Meat and mushroom pie

Meat and Mushroom Pie – A Delicious Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

This is a meat and mushroom pie that perfectly combines flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for any meal, from a quiet family dinner to a party with friends. The origins of this pie are deeply rooted in ancient culinary traditions, where the dish was often prepared with simple yet exceptionally tasty ingredients, perfect for feeding a large family. This recipe is not only a delicious choice but also an opportunity to connect with loved ones around a satisfying meal.

Ingredients needed:

For the dough:
- 300 g flour
- 20 g fresh yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- Warm water (about 150 ml)

For the filling:
- 1 chicken breast (about 300 g), finely chopped
- 500 g champignon mushrooms, washed and sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and grated
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs (1 for the filling and 1 for brushing)
- 100 g melted cheese
- 100 g grated cheese
- Oil, for frying
- Fresh herbs (dill, parsley), finely chopped
- Spices (salt, pepper, sweet paprika) to taste

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt. In another container, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy. Add the yeast mixture to the flour and start kneading, gradually adding the oil. Continue kneading until you obtain an elastic and homogeneous dough. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise for 30 minutes in a warm place.

2. Preparing the filling: Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a large pan, heat a little oil and add the mushrooms. Sauté them over medium heat until they turn golden and lose some of their water. In a separate pot, heat a little oil and add the chopped onion. When the onion becomes translucent, add the grated carrot and chicken breast. Sauté everything for a few minutes, then add chicken broth (or water) to boil. Let it simmer until the meat is fully cooked.

3. Combining the ingredients: Once the chicken breast is cooked, add the sautéed mushrooms to the pot, along with the chopped herbs. Season with salt, pepper, and, if desired, a little sweet paprika for extra flavor. Remove the pot from heat and add the melted cheese, mixing well. Finally, beat one egg and incorporate it into the filling, saving a little to brush the pie.

4. Assembling the pie: After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll out the first part on a floured work surface, forming a thin sheet to cover the bottom of a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Spread the meat and mushroom filling evenly over the surface. Roll out the second part of the dough and cut thin strips to place over the filling, forming a decorative pattern. Brush the strips with the remaining egg.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until it turns golden and crispy. The aroma that will fill your kitchen during baking will be simply irresistible!

6. Serving: Let the pie cool for a few minutes before cutting it. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or pickles, and, why not, a glass of dry white wine or a cold lemonade.

Practical tips:

- Flour: Choose a good quality flour, ideal for doughs. Type 000 or 550 flour is perfect for achieving a fluffy dough.
- Yeast: Make sure the yeast is fresh. You can check its activity by adding a teaspoon of sugar; if it foams, it is good to use.
- Mushrooms: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for a deeper flavor.
- Spices: Play with the spices! Add a pinch of nutmeg or even cumin for an interesting aroma.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use pork or beef?
Yes, you can replace the chicken breast with minced pork or beef, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I make the pie lighter?
Use ready-made pastry sheets for a quick preparation. The filling will remain just as tasty!

3. Can the pie be frozen?
Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Wrap it well in cling film and keep it in the freezer. When you're ready to bake it, let it thaw in the fridge and then bake according to the instructions.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 380
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g

This meat and mushroom pie is more than just a culinary dish; it is a way to bring people together, create memories, and savor moments of joy. Each bite is an explosion of flavors and textures that will make you feel at home. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its delicious story! Enjoy your meal!