Szarlotka (Polish Apple Pie) Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon cold water
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples (about 6 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch pie dish
- rolling pin
- pastry brush

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.

3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse sand.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and cold water. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and stir until the dough comes together.

5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it a few times until it forms a smooth ball. Flatten the ball into a disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

7. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish and trim the edges.

8. Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust and drizzle the melted butter over the top.

9. Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.

10. Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 372
Fat per serving: 17g
Saturated fat per serving: 10g
Cholesterol per serving: 71mg
Sodium per serving: 153mg
Carbohydrates per serving: 53g
Fiber per serving: 3g
Sugar per serving: 32g
Protein per serving: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour.
- Brown sugar can be substituted for granulated sugar.
- Margarine can be substituted for unsalted butter.
- Orange juice can be substituted for lemon juice.

Variations:
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple mixture.
- Top the pie with a streusel topping made from flour, brown sugar, and butter.
- Use a mix of apples and pears for a different flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to use cold butter when making the crust to ensure a flaky texture.
- Don't overwork the dough or it will become tough.
- Use a variety of apples for the best flavor and texture.
- Brush the edges of the crust with an egg wash for a shiny finish.

Storage instructions:
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve slices of pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle cinnamon or powdered sugar over the top of the pie before serving.

Pairings:
Serve the pie with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve the pie with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crust is browning too quickly, cover it with foil.
- If the pie is too runny, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the apple mixture.
- If the pie is too dry, add a tablespoon of water to the apple mixture.

Food safety advice:
Be sure to wash your hands and all equipment thoroughly before preparing the pie.

Food history:
Szarlotka is a traditional Polish apple pie that dates back to the 19th century.

Flavor profiles:
Szarlotka has a sweet and slightly tart flavor with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the pie warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

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Region: Polish

Taste: Sweet, Tart, Spicy, Cinnamon