Sausage meat and onion pie

Introduction

This hearty and flavorful sausage meat and onion pie is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Encased in buttery pastry and filled with a savory mix of sausage, caramelized onions, and herbs, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Intensity Level: Easy – Simple steps for a rustic homemade pie.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 pound (450g) sausage meat or sausages removed from their casings
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup (50g) breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg, beaten (for binding)

For the Pastry:

• 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (225g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 4-6 tablespoons cold water

For Assembly:

• 1 large egg, beaten (for brushing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden, about 15 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and sugar, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the sausage meat, nutmeg, thyme, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stir in the caramelized onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the filling aside.

Step 2: Make the Pastry

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
3. Divide the dough into two portions, one slightly larger than the other. Shape into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the larger portion of pastry on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish. Gently press the pastry into the dish, allowing the edges to overhang.
3. Add the sausage and onion filling, spreading it evenly.
4. Roll out the smaller portion of pastry to create the top crust. Place it over the filling and trim the excess pastry.
5. Crimp the edges to seal, and cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
6. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
2. Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with mashed potatoes and gravy for a hearty meal.
• Pair with a crisp green salad and a tangy vinaigrette for a lighter option.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 slice, approx. 1/8 of pie):

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 15g

Tips and Variations

• Add chopped fresh parsley or sage to the filling for extra flavor.
• Substitute part of the sausage meat with ground beef or turkey for a leaner pie.
• Use ready-made pastry for a quicker preparation.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

This sausage meat and onion pie is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for feeding your family or impressing guests with a homemade savory delight!