Savory > Pies > Latvian Pies

Speķrauši and Cheese Pie Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked speķrauši, diced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch pie plate
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Large bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9-inch pie plate with butter.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the speķrauši and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Add the flour and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Slowly add the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Add the mustard, thyme, pepper, and paprika and stir to combine.
7. Remove from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, parsley, and dill.
8. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie plate.
9. In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the pie.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 375 degrees F
Serving Size: 8

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 463
Fat: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 19 g
Protein: 24 g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- For the speķrauši, you can use cooked bacon or cooked sausage.
- For the cheddar cheese, you can use any type of cheese you prefer.
- For the sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt or crème fraiche.
- For the heavy cream, you can use half and half or evaporated milk.

Variations:
- You can add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- You can add other herbs and spices to the filling, such as oregano, basil, or cayenne pepper.
- You can top the pie with crushed potato chips or crushed crackers instead of the panko bread crumbs.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cook the speķrauši until it is crispy before adding it to the filling.
- Make sure to whisk the chicken broth into the saucepan to prevent lumps.
- Make sure to stir the filling until all of the ingredients are combined.

Storage Instructions:
The pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
The pie can be reheated in the oven at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
The pie can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.

Garnishes:
The pie can be garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, or with a dollop of sour cream.

Pairings:
The pie pairs well with a glass of white wine or a light beer.

Suggested Side Dishes:
The pie can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the filling is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth.
- If the filling is too thin, add a bit more flour.
- If the top of the pie is not browning, increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees F.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to cook the speķrauši until it is crispy before adding it to the filling.

Food History:
This dish is a traditional Latvian dish that is often served during special occasions.

Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory flavor with notes of garlic, onion, and herbs.

Serving Suggestions:
The pie can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.

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Region: Latvian

Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Buttery, Herby, Flaky