Tourtière: A French-Canadian Meat Pie Recipe

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine flour with the salt. Cut in butter or lard until mixture is a roughly even crumbly texture. Add water and blend just until dough comes together.

Step 2

Shape into a rough disc, wrap and chill in the refrigerator. While pastry is chilling, prepare filling.

Step 3

Cook potatoes in a pot of water until tender, about 12 minutes. Reserve 1/2-cup of potato water and drain the rest. Mash potatoes and set aside.

Step 4

In a large skillet, cook the onion, garlic beef and pork over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain off excess fat.

Step 5

Combine the seasonings in a small bowl and add to the meat mixture in the skillet.

Step 6

Add the reserved potato water. Mix in well and simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.

Step 7

Remove the pan from heat, stir in mashed potatoes, and set aside to cool.

Step 8

Preheat oven to 400°F/205°C

Step 9

On a lightly floured surface, divide dough in half and flatten one ball of dough with your hands. Roll dough to about 12-inches in diameter to fit a 9-inch pie pan.

Step 10

Place the pastry into the pie plate and add the meat filling.

Step 11

Brush around the outer edge of the pastry with the beaten egg. Roll out the top pastry and place on top of the filling.

Step 12

Fold the top crust under the bottom crust and pinch or flute the edges. Brush with egg wash and cut vent holes.

Step 13

Bake in a preheated over for 30 to 35 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.

Step 14

Remove the tourtière from oven and let it cool at least 10 minutes before serving. Yield: Makes 1 pie, about 8 servings.