This savory potato and broccoli pie is a comforting and flavorful dish, packed with the goodness of potatoes, vegetables, and a creamy egg mixture. The combination of sautéed onions, carrots, mushrooms, and garlic creates a delicious base for this pie, while the tender potatoes and broccoli bring texture and nutrition. The addition of Italian herbs adds an aromatic twist, and the crust made from flour and eggs gives this pie a satisfying heartiness. It’s a perfect dish for lunch, dinner, or a special occasion, and it’s easy to make, especially for those who love a delicious, filling pie that’s packed with vegetables. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this savory pie is sure to become a family favorite.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- 600g (21.16 oz) potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red onion, diced
- 1 carrot, peeled and grated
- 200g (7.05 oz) mushrooms, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 2 bay leaves
- 5-6 peppercorns
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup (50 ml) milk
- 3 eggs
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh dill, chopped
- 150g (5.29 oz) flour
- 50g (1.76 oz) cheese, grated (optional)
- Foil for covering
Directions
Prepare the Potatoes:
- In a large pot, cover the chopped potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly. Once cooled, chop them into small pieces.
Sauté the Vegetables: 3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing the oil to absorb the garlic flavor. 4. Remove the garlic and add the diced red onion to the pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent. 5. Add the grated carrot, chopped mushrooms, and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs. Cook for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
Cook the Broccoli: 6. While the vegetables are cooking, place the broccoli florets in a bowl, pour hot water over them, and add salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
Prepare the Egg Mixture: 7. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with milk, parsley, and dill. Season with salt to taste.
Make the Pie Crust: 8. In another large bowl, combine the flour with the chopped potatoes, mixing everything thoroughly to form a dough-like consistency. Add the egg mixture and mix well.
Assemble the Pie: 9. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). 10. Add the sautéed mushroom and vegetable filling to the potato dough, mixing it evenly. Then, fold in the broccoli, ensuring it is well distributed. 11. Transfer the mixture into a greased pie dish and cover it with foil. 12. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes.
Finish the Pie: 13. After 50 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the top of the pie with grated cheese if desired. Continue to bake for another 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pie is firm.
Serve: 14. Remove from the oven and let the pie cool slightly before serving. This savory pie can be served warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
The Origins and Popularity of Savory Pies
Savory pies have been a staple in cuisines around the world for centuries, dating back to medieval times when pies were used to preserve meat and other ingredients. The idea of encasing fillings in a dough crust was an efficient way to store and transport food, and it eventually became a beloved dish in various cultures. In the United Kingdom, savory pies such as the traditional meat pie and shepherd’s pie became iconic. Meanwhile, in Mediterranean countries, vegetable pies like spanakopita (spinach pie) and other savory pastries filled with herbs, cheese, and vegetables are widely enjoyed.
In the modern era, savory pies have evolved to include a wide range of ingredients, including vegetables, cheese, and grains. This potato and broccoli savory pie is a perfect example of how savory pies can be adapted to include nutritious vegetables, creating a dish that is both comforting and wholesome. The use of potatoes in the crust is also a unique twist, offering a deliciously soft and hearty base.
Today, savory pies are enjoyed around the world, especially in casual settings like family meals, picnics, and gatherings. They are a great way to incorporate vegetables into meals, and they can be customized to suit any dietary preferences. This particular potato and broccoli pie offers a delightful mix of textures, from the fluffy potato crust to the tender broccoli and sautéed vegetables, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it combines all the best elements of comfort food while being healthy and filling. The creamy potato crust adds a hearty base to the dish, and the sautéed vegetables bring vibrant flavor and texture. The broccoli adds a burst of freshness, and the egg mixture gives the pie a creamy, satisfying finish. It’s a great way to enjoy vegetables in a fun and flavorful way, and it’s easy to make, even for beginners. Plus, it can be customized by adding different vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
This savory potato and broccoli pie is packed with nutritional benefits, thanks to its wholesome ingredients. Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamin C, which supports immune health. Broccoli is rich in vitamins K and C, folate, and antioxidants, all of which help maintain healthy bones, improve digestion, and protect the body from oxidative stress. The addition of carrots, mushrooms, and onions boosts the vegetable content, providing fiber and important vitamins and minerals.
The eggs provide a complete source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall bodily function. The olive oil used for sautéing the vegetables provides healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The combination of these ingredients makes this pie a balanced and nutritious meal that is both comforting and good for you.
Serving Suggestions of This Recipe
- With a Salad: Serve the pie with a fresh green salad for a balanced and light meal.
- As a Side Dish: This pie makes an excellent side dish for roasted meats, grilled chicken, or fish.
- With Yogurt: A dollop of creamy yogurt on the side can complement the flavors of the pie and add a tangy contrast.
- For Brunch: This pie is perfect for brunch when served with a glass of fresh juice or a hot cup of tea.
Tips
- Use a Deep Dish: If you’re using a smaller pie dish, consider using a deeper dish to accommodate all the filling.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pie ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just make sure to cover it well before refrigerating.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, leeks, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrients.
- Add Cheese: If you love cheese, sprinkle some grated cheese over the top before baking for a cheesy, golden finish.
Variations to Try
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly while keeping the flavors intact.
- Add Meat: If you’re craving protein, add cooked chicken or turkey to the filling for a meatier version of the pie.
- Spicy Version: Add some red pepper flakes or chili powder to the vegetable filling for a spicy kick.
- Crustless Pie: Skip the crust and make a crustless version by simply baking the vegetable and egg mixture in a greased pie dish.
Conclusion
This savory potato and broccoli pie is a perfect example of comfort food at its finest. Packed with nutritious vegetables, a hearty potato crust, and a flavorful filling, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, it’s a meal that will please everyone at the table. The combination of textures and flavors makes this pie a versatile addition to any meal plan. With easy-to-follow steps and a variety of customizable options, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pie up to the point of baking, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before putting it in the oven. -
Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat it in the oven when ready to serve. -
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like, such as cheddar, gouda, or vegan cheese for a dairy-free version. -
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Make sure to cook the filling before adding it to the crust, and ensure the filling isn’t too watery. This will help prevent the crust from becoming soggy. -
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Yes, you can use other vegetables like spinach, kale, or cauliflower instead of broccoli. -
Can I add meat to this pie?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage to the filling for added protein. -
How long does the pie last?
The pie will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly and reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving. -
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using them in the pie to avoid excess moisture. -
How do I make the pie spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes, chili powder, or hot sauce to the vegetable filling to make it spicier. -
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust to make the pie gluten-free.