Glen Rouge Pie

Introduction

The Glen Rouge Pie is a sumptuous culinary creation that blends the flavors of tradition with the elegance of modern cuisine. Named after the picturesque Glen Rouge Park, this pie is both a comfort food and a gourmet dish, perfect for any occasion. Historically, pies were one of the earliest forms of processed food, adapted over centuries, providing sustenance and delight to generations. The Glen Rouge Pie pays homage to those roots while infusing flavors that capture the essence of today’s gourmet trends.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Butter - 1 cup, chilled and diced
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Water - 4 to 6 tablespoons, ice cold
• Chicken - 1 pound, diced
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Mushrooms - 1 cup, sliced
• Carrots - 1 cup, diced
• Peas - 1 cup
• Cream - 1 cup
• Chicken broth - 2 cups
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon, dried
• Black pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Bay leaf - 1
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons

Preparation

Creating the Perfect Pie Crust

The foundation of the Glen Rouge Pie is a delightful, flaky crust. Start by combining flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the cold, diced butter into the mixture, utilizing a pastry cutter or two knives to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just holds together. Be cautious not to overmix. Divide dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least an hour.

Preparing the Filling

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Stir in the mushrooms, carrots, and peas, cooking until the mushrooms have softened. Return the chicken to the skillet, pour in the chicken broth and cream, add thyme, black pepper, and the bay leaf. Simmer until thickened, about 15 minutes. Remove the bay leaf before using.

Assembly and Cooking

Assembling the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface to fit your pie pan. Carefully place the rolled dough into the pan, pressing gently. Spoon the prepared filling into the crust, ensuring an even distribution.

Roll out the second dough disc and place over the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Use a sharp knife to cut slits in the top, allowing steam to escape during cooking.

Baking the Pie

Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Check with a cooking timer to ensure perfect timing.

Enjoying Your Glen Rouge Pie

Allow the Glen Rouge Pie to cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set. This pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. It is best enjoyed with family and friends, celebrating the harmony of its nourishing ingredients and the warmth it brings to the dining table.

The art of savoring a pie like Glen Rouge lies in enjoying the layered textures and flavors—from the crunch of the flaky crust to the rich, creamy filling, each bite offers a new experience. Serve with refreshing beverages, making it an ideal meal for cozy dinners or festive gatherings.