Mushroom Pie (Vegan)

I invite you to embark on a unique culinary experience by preparing a delicious mushroom pie, perfect for any meal, whether it's a family dinner, a party with friends, or a quick lunch. This simple yet flavorful recipe will bring joy to both you and your loved ones. Each bite is an explosion of flavors, and the combination of mushrooms, onions, and dill will delight your taste buds.

About the recipe
The mushroom pie has deep roots in traditional cuisine, where the flaky crust and rich filling blend harmoniously. Over time, this recipe has been adapted and reinterpreted, with each chef leaving their personal mark. Today, I will present you with a delicious version, ideal for fasting days, but one that will win your heart no matter when you prepare it.

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Number of servings: 6

Ingredients
- 400 g mushrooms (preferably champignon or wild mushrooms)
- 2 medium-sized white onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- A few sprigs of fresh dill
- 2 green garlic stalks (optional)
- 100 g margarine (or butter, for a richer taste)
- 250 g flour
- 4-5 tablespoons water
- Half a packet of baking powder

Preparation technique

Step 1: Preparing the dough
1. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. This mixture will form the base of the dough.
2. Adding the margarine: Cut the margarine into small cubes and incorporate it into the flour, mixing with your fingertips until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand.
3. Adding the water: Making a well in the center of the mixture, gradually pour in the water. Mix until the dough becomes non-sticky. If it is too wet, you can add a little more flour.
4. Resting the dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This will help the gluten relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
1. Heating the oil: In a skillet, add the oil and heat over medium heat.
2. Sautéing the onions and garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and garlic (if using). Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Adding the mushrooms: Chop the mushrooms into small pieces and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their juices and soften.
4. Seasoning: Add salt, pepper, and a little dried dill, mixing well. Finally, add the breadcrumbs, which will help absorb excess moisture from the filling.
5. Finalizing the filling: Elevate the flavor by adding finely chopped fresh dill, which will provide a refreshing taste. Let the filling cool slightly.

Step 3: Assembling the pie
1. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (or 160°C if using a convection oven).
2. Preparing the baking dish: Grease a round baking dish with a little oil or margarine to prevent sticking.
3. Rolling out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out two-thirds of the dough into a sheet about 5 mm thick. Cover the bottom and sides of the dish with this sheet.
4. Adding the filling: Pour the mushroom filling into the dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Covering with dough: Roll out the remaining dough and cover the filling, sealing the edges well to secure the pie. You can use a fork to create a pattern on the edges or make small holes in the dough, which will allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 4: Baking
1. Baking the pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
2. Cooling: Once baked, let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the filling stabilize and make slicing easier.

Serving suggestions
Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with dill, which will perfectly complement the flavors. For a truly unique experience, you can try serving it with a glass of dry white wine or craft beer.

Possible variations
- Adding cheese: For a richer taste, you can add feta or telemea cheese to the filling.
- Mixed mushrooms: Instead of regular mushrooms, you can experiment with shiitake or porcini mushrooms for a more intense flavor.
- Additional vegetables: You can add grated carrots or spinach to enrich the filling with even more nutrients.

Nutritional benefits
This mushroom pie is an excellent option for a healthy meal. Mushrooms are rich in protein and fiber, while dill adds a note of freshness, being a good source of antioxidants. Additionally, it is a low-calorie recipe, with approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of oil? Yes, you can use olive oil for a more intense flavor or even butter for a richer aroma.
2. How long can the pie be stored? It can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days, and for a longer duration, you can freeze it.
3. Can I replace margarine with butter? Of course, butter will provide a richer taste, but margarine is a healthier alternative, especially for those who wish to avoid dairy.

In conclusion, this mushroom pie is not just a simple recipe, but also a way to bring loved ones together around a table full of delicious flavors. So, embrace the art of cooking and enjoy every step of this creative process! Enjoy your meal!