Savoury Impossible Pie
Welcome to a delightful cooking adventure where we explore the heavenly realms of the Savoury Impossible Pie. This dish is not just your average quiche; it’s a revolutionary breakfast option that forms its own crust as it bakes, making it a practical and delicious choice for any meal of the day. Here, we’ll uncover why you’ll love this recipe, provide you with a detailed ingredient list, offer helpful tips, a step-by-step method, and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s dive in!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
The Savoury Impossible Pie is incredibly easy to prepare — perfect for busy mornings or relaxed weekend brunches. Its unique property of producing a crust while baking allows for less hassle, no tearing or rolling out dough. With wholesome ingredients like spinach, cheese, and ham or your protein of choice, this pie is both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile! Pair it with a fresh salad or some sautéed veggies, and you have a complete meal.
Ingredients
This simple yet satisfying pie features a few key ingredients that blend together seamlessly. Here’s what you need:
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup plain flour
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced ham (or chopped meat of your choice)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 4 large eggs, beaten lightly
- 60 grams butter, melted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Method
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This is a crucial first step as it ensures your pie bakes evenly and achieves that lovely golden color.
Step 2: Lightly grease a 24cm pie dish. Greasing the pan prevents sticking and facilitates easy removal once your pie is baked to perfection.
Step 3: Prepare the spinach by blanching it. Place the spinach in a bowl and cover it with boiling water for about a minute. This process softens the leaves and helps maintain their vibrant color. Once the time is up, drain and transfer the spinach to cold water to halt the cooking process. Squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a watery pie.
Step 4: In a mixing bowl, sift the flour and then stir in the grated cheddar cheese, diced ham, and crumbled feta cheese. Mixing these ingredients before incorporating the wet components helps ensure an even distribution of flavor in your pie.
Step 5: In a separate jug, blend together the milk, beaten eggs, and melted butter. Whisk this mixture until it’s well combined, as this will create a smooth filling for the pie.
Step 6: Pour the wet mixture into your flour mixture and add the prepared spinach. Stir gently until everything is combined, ensuring the spinach is well distributed throughout.
Step 7: Transfer the mixture into your prepared pie dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with grated Parmesan cheese, which will form a crispy topping as it bakes.
Step 8: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pie is golden and set in the center. It’s essential to keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-baking.
Step 9: Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This pie can be served warm or cold, making it incredibly versatile for any time of the day.
Pro Tips for Making Savoury Impossible Pie
1. Storage: The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and also freezes well. Just slice it into pieces and wrap them in cling film before placing them in an airtight container.
2. Vegetarian Variations: You can easily make this pie vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini, which complement the pie nicely.
3. Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. A blend of mozzarella and provolone can add a delightful texture.
4. Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the flavor profile of this dish, making it even more delicious.
5. Don’t Skip Blanching: This process is vital for maintaining the spinach’s bright color and flavor, enhancing your pie’s overall presentation.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in the Savoury Impossible Pie?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out spinach for other vegetables such as kale, broccoli, or cooked mushrooms. Just ensure that they are cooked properly before adding them to the mix.
Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking, such as almond flour or a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour mix.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely! This pie is great for meal prep. You can make it the day before and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve!
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie should be golden brown and set in the center. You can insert a toothpick or knife; it should come out clean if fully cooked.
What can I serve with the Savoury Impossible Pie?
This pie pairs wonderfully with a light tossed salad or your choice of roasted vegetables. It’s also delicious with a dollop of sour cream or a fresh yogurt dip on the side.
Conclusion
The Savoury Impossible Pie is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that proves satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated. With its ingenious method of forming a crust while baking, delicious mix of spinach, cheese, and ham, and multiple serving options, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it out and enjoy every slice!
