French Meat Pie (Tourtiere) – Indulge in the delectable flavors of our Best French Meat Pie (Tourtiere) recipe! This traditional dish boasts a harmonious blend of ground pork, beef, and aromatic spices, all encased in a flaky crust. Each bite transports you to the rustic charm of French cuisine. Prepare to be captivated by the rich heritage and savory goodness of this beloved pie. Discover why this recipe has become a cherished tradition in countless households and why it’s worth experiencing for yourself!
Picture this: the comforting aroma of a freshly baked French Meat Pie (Tourtiere) wafting through your home. It’s a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, especially since it has become a beloved staple in our little family. I vividly remember the first time I prepared it for my husband. As he took his first bite, his eyes widened, and a smile illuminated his face. The warmth of the spices, the tender meat, and the flaky crust won him over completely. Since that moment, this delightful pie has graced our dinner table on countless occasions, creating memories and bringing us closer as a family. Now, I can’t wait to share this treasured recipe with you.
Why This Classic French Meat Pie (Tourtiere) Will Win Your Heart?
- A Flavorful Harmony: Combining 2 pounds of ground pork and beef with a medley of aromatic spices, this meat pie delivers a burst of savory goodness in every bite. The allspice, nutmeg, and cloves add a touch of warmth and depth, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
- The Perfect Crust: Nestled within homemade or store-bought pie crusts, this French Meat Pie offers a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender, meaty filling. Each slice unveils the enticing golden-brown crust, hinting at the culinary masterpiece that lies beneath.
- A Taste of Tradition: Passed down through generations, this recipe captures the essence of French culinary heritage. It’s a dish that brings families together, evoking nostalgia and creating a sense of connection to the past. Experience the time-honored tradition of Tourtiere and add a touch of French elegance to your table.
Ingredients:
- 900g ground pork
- 900g ground beef (round)
- ¾ cup finely chopped celery
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1.2 liters hot water
- 2 tsp. Better Than Bouillon chicken base
- 1 tsp. poultry seasoning
- 240g seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ tsp. allspice
- ½ tsp. ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp. ground cloves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 homemade or store-bought 9-inch pie crusts
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Dissolve the Better Than Bouillon chicken base in hot water. Set aside.
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Sauté the onion and celery for approximately 5 minutes until slightly softened, using a wooden spoon to stir.
Add the chicken stock mixture, ground pork, ground beef, and poultry seasoning to the pot. Cook over medium heat until the meat is fully cooked, which usually takes about 20 minutes.
Stir in the breadcrumbs, allspice, ground cloves, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to cook for another 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
Season with salt to taste, keeping in mind that the bouillon and breadcrumbs already contribute some saltiness.
Let the mixture cool completely.
Fill the unbaked pie shells with the meat mixture. Place the pie crusts on top.
Roll the edges of the crusts under and pinch around the entire pie. Use a sharp knife to make a slit in the top of each pie.
Brush the crust with the beaten egg to achieve a golden-brown finish.
Bake the pies in the preheated oven for approximately 30 to 45 minutes or until the crust is beautifully browned.
Allow the pies to rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes:
- For a personal touch, feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like thyme, sage, or rosemary to enhance the flavors.
- You can make the pie crust from scratch using your favorite recipe or save time by opting for store-bought crusts.
- Serve this delightful French Meat Pie with a side of cranberry sauce or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
In conclusion, the Best French Meat Pie (Tourtiere) is a culinary masterpiece that combines tradition, flavor, and heartwarming memories. With its savory blend of ground pork and beef, fragrant spices, and flaky crust, this pie embodies the essence of French cuisine. Whether it’s a special family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe brings people together, creating moments of joy and connection.
As you take your first bite, savor the rich flavors that have been perfected over generations. The aroma of the pie baking in the oven fills your home, evoking a sense of warmth and comfort. Each slice unveils a medley of tender meat, enhanced by the delicate balance of spices. The golden-brown crust adds a satisfying crunch, completing this culinary delight.
By preparing the Best French Meat Pie, you embark on a culinary journey that captures the spirit of French tradition and invites you to create your own cherished memories. Whether it becomes a beloved family recipe or a treasured dish shared with friends, this pie is more than just a meal—it’s a testament to the joy of good food and the power it has to bring people closer.
So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and let the aroma of this irresistible pie fill the air. With each bite, let the flavors transport you to the heart of France, where culinary delights intertwine with shared moments of happiness. Embrace the heritage and warmth that this Best French Meat Pie (Tourtiere) recipe brings, and create your own story of love and deliciousness.
Bon appétit!
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the combination of ground pork and beef is traditional, you can customize the meat blend to suit your preferences. Ground veal, lamb, or even poultry can be used as substitutes or additions to create your own unique twist on the classic French Meat Pie.
Can I freeze the pie for later?
Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking for future enjoyment. Prepare the pie as directed, but instead of baking it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to savor the flavors, simply thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator and follow the baking instructions as usual.
Can I make mini versions of this pie?
Absolutely! To create individual-sized portions, use smaller pie crusts or even tart shells. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as the smaller pies may require less time in the oven. It’s a delightful way to serve this French Meat Pie at gatherings or as appetizers for special occasions.
French Meat Pie (Tourtiere)
Ingredients
- 900 g ground pork
- 900 g ground beef round
- ¾ cup finely chopped celery
- 1 yellow onion finely chopped
- 1.2 liters hot water
- 2 tsp. Better Than Bouillon chicken base
- 1 tsp. poultry seasoning
- 240 g seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ tsp. allspice
- ½ tsp. ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp. ground cloves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 homemade or store-bought 9-inch pie crusts
- 1 large egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Dissolve the Better Than Bouillon chicken base in hot water. Set aside.
- Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion and celery for approximately 5 minutes until slightly softened, using a wooden spoon to stir.
- Add the chicken stock mixture, ground pork, ground beef, and poultry seasoning to the pot. Cook over medium heat until the meat is fully cooked, which usually takes about 20 minutes.
- Stir in the breadcrumbs, allspice, ground cloves, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to cook for another 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Season with salt to taste, keeping in mind that the bouillon and breadcrumbs already contribute some saltiness.
- Let the mixture cool completely.
- Fill the unbaked pie shells with the meat mixture. Place the pie crusts on top.
- Roll the edges of the crusts under and pinch around the entire pie. Use a sharp knife to make a slit in the top of each pie.
- Brush the crust with the beaten egg to achieve a golden-brown finish.
- Bake the pies in the preheated oven for approximately 30 to 45 minutes or until the crust is beautifully browned.
- Allow the pies to rest for 15 minutes before serving.
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