Alsatian Pie

Alsatian Pie Recipe from Alsace, Latvia | Ingredients: Corn Oil, Onions, Soy Milk, Silken Tofu, Puff Pastry, and More

Region / culture: Alsace, Latvia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Alsatian Pie, a delightful and savory dish, is a modern twist on traditional Alsatian cuisine. This recipe is a testament to the versatility of vegan cooking, incorporating ingredients like soy milk, silken tofu, and couscous to create a rich, flavorful pie that's both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for any meal of the day, this pie is sure to impress with its delicate balance of flavors and textures.

History

The origins of Alsatian Pie trace back to the Alsace region, which straddles the border between France and Germany. Traditionally, Alsatian cuisine is known for its hearty, meat-based dishes. However, this recipe offers a contemporary, plant-based take on the classic, reflecting the growing trend towards veganism and the adaptation of traditional recipes to fit modern dietary preferences.

Ingredients

1 tbsp corn oil
1 kg onions, finely diced
0.5 tsp salt
200 ml soy milk
250 g silken tofu
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp dried basil
2 tsp soy sauce
50 ml couscous
1 tbsp chopped chives
puff pastry

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) or 175°C.
In a pan, sauté the onions in oil with salt until they become translucent and soft.
Line a 10" (24 cm) springform pan with puff pastry.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes.
In a blender, combine the soy milk, silken tofu, pepper, basil, and soy sauce. Blend until smooth.
Next, mix the sautéed onions, soy milk mixture, chives, and couscous together.
Pour the mixture into the prepared springform pan.
Bake for 30–40 minutes.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the couscous with quinoa and use a gluten-free puff pastry. Adding mushrooms or spinach can also enhance the pie's flavor and nutritional profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, sauté the onions on low heat to bring out their natural sweetness without burning them. When blending the soy milk and tofu mixture, aim for a smooth, creamy consistency to ensure the filling sets properly. Additionally, letting the pie rest for a few minutes after baking will make it easier to slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pie warm, accompanied by a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal. A dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add an extra layer of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, which helps to create a crispy pastry base and a tender, flavorful filling. Sautéing the onions beforehand enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the pie's overall taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If soy milk or silken tofu isn't available, almond milk and soft cashew cheese can be used as alternatives. For those not avoiding gluten, barley or farro can replace couscous for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

The filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it easy to assemble and bake the pie when ready to serve. The baked pie also reheats well, ensuring leftovers won't go to waste.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pie with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving to add color and freshness. A light drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the presentation and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

A dry Riesling or a light-bodied Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the Alsatian Pie, complementing its richness without overpowering the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until thoroughly warmed, which should take about 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Alsatian Pie contains approximately 250 calories, making it a moderate-calorie option that fits well into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This Alsatian Pie is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the main sources being onions and couscous. A single serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their carb intake.

Fats

Thanks to the use of corn oil and silken tofu, this pie is low in saturated fats. The total fat content per serving is around 10 grams, with only 1.5 grams of saturated fat, contributing to a heart-healthy profile.

Proteins

Silken tofu and soy milk are excellent sources of plant-based protein, making this dish a great option for vegetarians and vegans alike. Each serving of Alsatian Pie provides about 12 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in various vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C from onions, calcium and Vitamin D from fortified soy milk, and iron from the couscous. These nutrients play vital roles in bone health, immune function, and oxygen transport.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are soy (from soy milk, silken tofu, and soy sauce) and gluten (from couscous and puff pastry). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Alsatian Pie is a nutritious, balanced dish that provides a good mix of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, with moderate calories and carbohydrates. It's a heart-healthy, vegan-friendly option that doesn't compromise on flavor or satisfaction.

Summary

Alsatian Pie is a modern, vegan take on a traditional dish that offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. With its nutritious ingredients and versatile serving options, it's a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you're a long-time vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based dishes into your diet, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a small village in the Alsace region of France. The air was filled with the scent of freshly baked bread and pastries, and I couldn't resist wandering into a charming little bakery.

As I stepped inside, I was greeted by the sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar. The walls were lined with shelves filled with all sorts of delicious treats, but one in particular caught my eye - a beautiful Alsatian Pie. The flaky crust was golden brown, with a tantalizing filling of apples, cinnamon, and almonds peeking out from within.

I couldn't resist ordering a slice, and as I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The flavors exploded in my mouth, a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a hint of warmth from the spices. I immediately set out to find out how to recreate this masterpiece in my own kitchen.

I struck up a conversation with the friendly baker, who was more than happy to share his recipe with me. He explained that Alsatian Pie was a traditional dish in the region, often served during special occasions and celebrations. The recipe had been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to it.

I eagerly jotted down the ingredients and instructions, eager to try my hand at making this delectable treat. As I immersed myself in the process of baking, I couldn't help but think of all the wonderful memories I had accumulated over the years, learning new recipes and techniques from various places and people.

I remembered my grandmother teaching me how to make her famous chocolate chip cookies, the secret ingredient always being a sprinkle of love. I recalled the time I spent in Italy, mastering the art of making the perfect pizza dough from a local chef. And I thought back to the countless family gatherings where I had shared my culinary creations with loved ones, watching their faces light up with joy and satisfaction.

As the scent of cinnamon and apples filled my kitchen, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. The Alsatian Pie emerged from the oven, its crust glistening with a light dusting of powdered sugar. I couldn't wait to share this delicious creation with my family and friends, knowing that it would surely become a new favorite in our household.

As we gathered around the table to enjoy the pie, I shared the story of how I had discovered the recipe and the memories it had evoked. My loved ones savored each bite, their eyes twinkling with delight. It was moments like these that made all the time and effort spent in the kitchen worth it, knowing that I was able to bring joy and happiness to those around me through my cooking.

I have since made the Alsatian Pie many times, each batch turning out better than the last. It has become a staple in my repertoire, a dish that never fails to impress and delight. And every time I take a bite, I am transported back to that quaint bakery in the Alsace region, where I first discovered the magic of this delectable treat.

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and passion that cooking brings into my life. And as I continue to learn and explore new recipes and techniques, I know that there will always be more delicious discoveries waiting to be made, just waiting for me to take that first bite.