Swedish Pie. Recipe
History of Swedish Pie:
Swedish cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors, and one traditional dish that exemplifies this is Swedish Pie. This savory pie has been enjoyed in Sweden for centuries and has become an integral part of Swedish culinary heritage. The pie is often enjoyed as a main course and is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering or a festive celebration.
Fun Facts about Swedish Pie:
1. Traditional Swedish pie is typically made with lamb or mutton. The meat is seasoned with salt, pepper, thyme, and mace, which give the dish a flavorful and aromatic profile.
2. The use of capers and mushrooms in Swedish Pie adds a unique twist to the dish. These ingredients contribute to the rich and savory taste that Swedish cuisine is known for.
3. The addition of flour mixed with wine helps to thicken the sauce, creating a luscious and creamy texture. This step is crucial in bringing all the flavors together and making the pie irresistible.
4. Baked turnips are commonly served alongside Swedish Pie, adding a hint of sweetness and earthiness that complements the flavors of the dish perfectly.
Now, let's dive into the recipe for Swedish Pie:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of lamb or mutton, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon mace
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of capers, chopped
- 1 cup of mushrooms, sliced
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 1 glass of red wine
- Baked turnips, to serve
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the diced lamb or mutton with salt, pepper, thyme, and mace. Make sure all the pieces are evenly coated with the spices.
3. In a large stewing pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
4. Add the seasoned lamb or mutton to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This will help seal in the flavors and ensure the meat remains juicy during the cooking process.
5. Once the meat is browned, add the chopped capers and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the mixture stew slowly for about 2 hours, or until the meat becomes tender and juicy. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. In a separate bowl, mix the flour with the red wine until a smooth paste is formed. This mixture will be used to thicken the sauce.
8. Slowly pour the flour and wine mixture into the stewing pot, stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and reaches the desired consistency.
9. Once the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from the heat and transfer the mixture into a prepared pie crust. Make sure to evenly distribute the meat and sauce throughout the pie.
10. Cover the pie with another layer of pie crust, sealing the edges together. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
11. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
12. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot slices of Swedish Pie alongside baked turnips for a complete and delicious meal.
Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy the flavors of Swedish Pie, you might also love some other traditional Scandinavian dishes. Here are a few similar recipe dishes that you can explore:
1. Finnish Meat Pie (Lihapiirakka): This savory Finnish pie is typically made with a crispy pastry crust and filled with ground meat, onions, and spices. It is often enjoyed as a popular street food dish in Finland.
2. Norwegian Lamb Stew (Fårikål): Fårikål is a traditional Norwegian dish consisting of lamb or mutton stewed with cabbage, onions, and aromatic spices. It is considered the national dish of Norway and is often enjoyed during festive occasions.
3. Danish Pork Roast (Flæskesteg): This classic Danish dish features a succulent pork roast with perfectly crispy crackling. It is typically served with boiled potatoes, red cabbage, and gravy, creating a hearty and flavorful meal.
Exploring these traditional Scandinavian dishes will allow you to delve deeper into the rich culinary heritage of the region and discover a range of delicious flavors. So why not expand your palate and indulge in the wonders of Scandinavian cuisine?
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