Eleni's Remembrance Pie
Eleni's Remembrance Pie is more than just a dish; it is a symbol of memory and tradition. This pie has its roots in the sun-drenched kitchens of Greece, where it was originally crafted to commemorate special occasions, bringing families together over a shared culinary heritage. Passed down through generations, this recipe has been slightly adapted over the years while retaining its core ingredients and flavor profile. With a blend of savory spices, hearty grains, and crisp phyllo, it serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of Mediterranean culinary history.
Ingredients
- Phyllo - traditional thin pastry used for making Greek pies
- Spinach - fresh and leafy, provides a vibrant green color
- Feta - crumbly and tangy cheese that adds creaminess
- Onion - finely chopped to add depth of flavor
- Garlic - minced, for aromatic spice
- Olive Oil - used for sautéing and brushing the phyllo
- Dill - fresh, to enhance the traditional Greek taste
- Pepper - for seasoning
- Salt - to taste
- Nutmeg - a pinch to add warmth
- Egg - to bind the filling
Preparation
Preparing the Filling: Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes. Gradually add the spinach, stirring until wilted. This process should allow the spinach to reduce down considerably. Set aside and cool.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled spinach mixture with crumbled feta, a whisked egg, dill, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Ensure the mixture is well-blended but not overly mashed, as texture is important.
Assembling the Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly oil a baking pan. Place one sheet of phyllo on the bottom of the pan, brushing it with more olive oil. Repeat this process with several layers to form a sturdy base.
Once the base is prepared, evenly spread the spinach and feta filling over the layered phyllo. Continue layering the remaining phyllo on top, brushing each layer with olive oil until all the sheets are used. Be sure to tuck the edges in so that the filling is fully encased.
Baking: Score the top of the pie into portions using a sharp knife. Bake in the preheated oven until the phyllo is golden and crisp, typically around 45 minutes to an hour. You can monitor with this cooking timer to ensure precision.
Serving Suggestions
Eleni's Remembrance Pie pairs beautifully with a side salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions drizzled in a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing. For a true Mediterranean experience, serve it alongside olives, and perhaps a glass of chilled white wine.
This pie is best enjoyed warm, though it holds up well as a cold treat too. It's suitable for feeding a large family or as a conversational centerpiece at gatherings, offering both comfort and a taste of historic charm. Inspired by the heartfelt cooking of Greek tradition, Eleni's Remembrance Pie makes every meal a memorable one.