Turkey And Ham Pie Recipe

In the realm of comfort food, Turkey and Ham Pie stands out as a delightful option that encapsulates the warm, savory goodness we crave during the colder months or any time you feel like indulging in some homey culinary bliss. Whether you're using up holiday leftovers or simply craving the combination of tender turkey and ham enveloped in a creamy sauce under a flaky crust, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let's dive into this comforting dish.

Why Choose Turkey and Ham Pie?

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🍗 Turkey and ham are not just traditional meats for festive occasions; their flavors harmonize beautifully, making pie a unique dish. Here’s why you might consider this recipe:

• Flavor Fusion: The turkey provides a mild, tender texture, while ham adds a touch of saltiness and depth. Together, they create a complex flavor profile that's both comforting and gourmet.

• Leftover Utilization: If you've had a holiday feast or a big roast, this pie is an excellent way to repurpose leftovers, reducing food waste and adding variety to your meal plan.

• Nutritional Balance: Incorporating vegetables and a well-balanced crust can make this pie not only a treat but also a balanced meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients:

• For the Filling:

  • 2 cups cooked, diced turkey
  • 1 cup cooked, diced ham
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme or sage, to taste

• For the Crust:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup cold butter, cubed
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Preparing the Filling

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Here's how you can prepare the filling:

Step-by-Step Filling Guide

1. Sauté the Base: Start by heating butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and translucent.

2. Incorporate Vegetables: Add your mixed vegetables to the skillet, cooking until they are tender.

3. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Slowly pour in the broth and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil to thicken.

4. Add Meats: Stir in the turkey and ham, season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Reduce the heat, letting the flavors meld for about 5 minutes.

5. Cool: Allow the filling to cool slightly while you prepare the crust.

Crafting the Pie Crust

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A perfect crust is crucial for any good pie:

Making the Crust

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a food processor or a large bowl, mix flour and salt.

2. Cut in Butter: Add cold, cubed butter. Pulse in a food processor or use a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add Water: Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overmix.

4. Form the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface, knead briefly, then divide into two halves, one slightly larger for the bottom crust.

5. Chill: Wrap the dough pieces in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Assembling and Baking the Pie

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Now let's bring it all together:

Assembly and Baking Guide

1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Roll Out Dough: Roll the larger dough piece for the bottom crust and place it in a pie dish.

3. Fill the Pie: Spoon the cooled filling into the crust.

4. Top Crust: Roll out the second piece of dough and carefully lay it over the filling. Crimp or flute the edges to seal.

5. Vent: Cut vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

6. Egg Wash: Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.

7. Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

• 🍽️ Serve warm, perhaps with a side of mashed potatoes or a light salad to balance the richness.

• Enjoy: Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent any filling from spilling out.

📝 Important Notes:

<p class="pro-note">🍴 Note: This pie can be assembled ahead of time and kept refrigerated until you're ready to bake, making it a great dish for meal planning.</p>

By now, you should have a delicious turkey and ham pie ready to enjoy. It’s not just about the flavor but the nostalgia, comfort, and the joy of cooking a dish that brings people together.

FAQs

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I freeze Turkey and Ham Pie?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, you can freeze the pie before or after baking. If unbaked, assemble, cover well, and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding extra time. If baked, cool thoroughly, wrap, and freeze. Reheat in the oven for best results.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What can I use instead of turkey?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Chicken is an excellent substitute for turkey. Duck or even leftover roasted meats can work wonderfully too.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How long does it keep in the fridge?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

This Turkey and Ham Pie recipe is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that's both comforting and impressive. Whether for a family dinner or to impress guests, this pie delivers on taste, comfort, and culinary satisfaction. Enjoy your bake!