Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup of ice water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 cup of Nikau cheese, grated
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch pie dish
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the ice water gradually and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
5. Add the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool.
6. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and transfer it to the pie dish. Trim the edges and prick the bottom with a fork.
7. In a separate bowl, mix the Nikau cheese, beaten eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
8. Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the pie crust, then pour the cheese mixture over it.
9. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
10. Let the pie cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 380
Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 380mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of cheese instead of Nikau cheese.
- You can use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach.
Variations:
- You can add other vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers to the filling.
- You can add cooked bacon or ham to the filling for a meatier version.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out to prevent it from sticking.
- You can use a fork to crimp the edges of the pie crust for a decorative touch.
- Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent the filling from spilling out.
Storage instructions:
- Store the leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Place the leftover pie on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pie on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil
- Sliced tomatoes or cucumbers
Pairings:
- Serve the pie with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed green salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pie crust is too dry, add a tablespoon of ice water at a time until it comes together.
- If the filling is too runny, add more cheese or eggs to thicken it.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling food.
- Cook the pie to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Nikau cheese is a type of New Zealand cheese made from cow's milk.
Flavor profiles:
- The pie has a savory and cheesy flavor with a buttery and flaky crust.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pie as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
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Region: New Zealand