Prairie Pie Recipe
Introduction to Prairie Pie
The Prairie Pie, a delightful dish rooted in the vast landscapes of the American Midwest, is a savory blend of hearty ingredients traditionally found in farmstead kitchens. Its origins can be traced back to pioneering times when resourceful cooks would utilize beef and potatoes to create nourishing meals that could sustain hard-working families. Over time, Prairie Pie evolved, incorporating regional influences and available produce to create the comforting dish we know today.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef stock
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Filling
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent. Next, incorporate the ground beef, cooking until browned. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Stir in the tomato paste and cook until it darkens slightly.
Step 2: Vegetables and Sauce
Add the chopped carrots, celery, potatoes, corn, and peas to the mixture. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually stir in the beef stock, bringing the mixture to a simmer as it thickens. Stir in dried thyme and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 3: Baking the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (see cooking timer). As the filling simmers, prepare a pie dish by lightly greasing it with butter. Pour the prepared filling into the dish. Roll out enough pastry to cover the pie, crimping the edges tightly. Cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Cooking Instructions
Baking
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Allow the pie to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Enjoying Prairie Pie
Prairie Pie can be enjoyed as a stand-alone meal or paired with a fresh green salad. It’s best served warm, often accompanied by a glass of chilled iced tea or a light red wine. This hearty pie also makes for excellent leftovers that can be quickly reheated in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Prairie Pie is more than just a dish; it's a slice of culinary history, combining comfort and practicality in each bite. Whether you are seeking to explore traditional American flavors or simply want a robust meal, this recipe offers an inviting journey into the heartland cuisine.