Rustic apple pie
Peasant Apple Pie: The Taste of Tradition in Every Slice
The peasant apple pie is a dessert that evokes childhood memories, when the aroma of baked apples and cinnamon filled the grandparents' house. This simple yet flavorful recipe uses ingredients from the traditional household, such as lard, buttermilk, and, of course, fresh apples. It is an ideal dessert to be enjoyed with loved ones, as well as a perfect opportunity to bring a touch of nostalgia into your kitchen. Let's start the culinary adventure!
Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Number of servings: 12
Necessary ingredients:
For the crust:
- 200 g solid lard (can be replaced with 150 g butter + 2-3 tablespoons of oil)
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 1 egg
- 300 ml buttermilk (or drinking yogurt)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 vanilla essence
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 450-500 g flour
For the filling:
- 2 kg apples (choose sweet and tart apples, such as homegrown apples)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons semolina
For dusting:
- 3-4 tablespoons powdered sugar with vanilla flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Step by step to a perfect result:
1. Preparing the apple filling:
- Start by peeling the apples and removing the seeds. Use a large grater or a food processor to turn them into puree.
- In a large skillet, add the grated apples, sugar, and cinnamon. Place the skillet over medium heat and stir occasionally. Allow the apples to sauté until they release their juice and become soft, forming a delicious syrup, about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the apples are ready, remove the skillet from the heat and add the semolina. Mix well and let the filling cool.
2. Preparing the dough:
- In a large bowl, cream the lard (or butter) with the sugar until you obtain a fluffy mixture. This is an essential step to achieve a light and tasty crust.
- Add the egg, salt, vanilla essence, and buttermilk in which you have dissolved the baking soda and baking powder. Mix all the ingredients well.
- Start incorporating the flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or your hands, until you obtain an elastic and non-sticky dough. It is important not to add all the flour at once; this will help you control the consistency of the dough.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step will help the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out.
3. Assembling the pie:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out the first part on a floured surface until you get a thin sheet.
- Place the dough sheet in a 26/36 cm baking tray lined with parchment paper or greased with oil. Make sure the edges are raised to contain the filling.
- Pour the apple filling over the dough, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Roll out the second sheet of dough and cover the filling, pricking it with a fork here and there to allow steam to escape during baking.
4. Baking the pie:
- Place the tray in the oven and bake the pie for 40 minutes or until the surface is golden and crispy.
- Once baked, let it cool in the tray for about 20 minutes. This will help stabilize the filling.
5. Serving:
- Slice the pie and sprinkle powdered sugar mixed with cinnamon on top for an attractive appearance and a sweet-tart flavor. This pie is served warm or at room temperature and is perfect alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic tea.
Variations and useful tips:
- If you want a touch of originality, you can add chopped nuts or hazelnuts to the apple filling for added texture.
- Instead of cinnamon, you can use nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor.
- Use different apples to achieve a combination of flavors (for example, sweet and tart apples).
- The pie keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for a few days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
Nutrition and benefits:
This apple pie provides a good source of fiber, thanks to the apples, which aid digestion and keep you feeling full. On the other hand, lard adds a rich flavor, but it is important to note that it is a source of saturated fats. By replacing lard with butter and oil, a lighter nutritional version can be achieved.
Do you want a pie that brings a touch of tradition into your life? This peasant apple pie recipe is definitely the ideal solution! Enjoy every slice and cherish the moments spent with family and friends. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: For the dough: 200 g solid lard 4 tablespoons sugar 1 egg 300 ml buttermilk (country yogurt) salt vanilla essence 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 packet baking powder 450-500 g flour For the filling: 2 kg apples 1 teaspoon cinnamon 3 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons semolina For dusting: 3-4 tablespoons powdered sugar with vanilla flavor 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
