Hunza pie
Hunza Pie is a nutritious vegetarian dish featuring a flaky crust filled with brown rice, spinach, cottage cheese, and eggs. This hearty meal is inspired by the Hunza people and is ideal for family gatherings or special occasions.
Cook time 95 min
Prep time 30 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter1.50 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1/2 cup water
1/3 cup brown rice
3 cups spinach
1/2 cup lowfat cottage cheese
1/3 cup cheddar cheese
6 eggs
Hunza Pie is a nutrient-rich, flavorful dish inspired by the traditional cuisine of the Hunza people. This vegetarian pie combines the hearty textures of brown rice and spinach with creamy cheeses and eggs, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust. It's perfect for a wholesome family meal or a special occasion.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups flour and ½ cup butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ½ cup water, mixing until a dough forms. Knead lightly to combine.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Rinse ⅓ cup brown rice under cold water.
- In a saucepan, combine the rice with ⅔ cup water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 30-35 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Wash and chop the 3 cups spinach.
- In a large skillet, cook the spinach over medium heat until wilted, stirring occasionally. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Squeeze out any excess moisture if needed.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, wilted spinach, ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese, and ⅓ cup grated cheddar cheese.
- Beat the 6 eggs lightly in a separate bowl, then add them to the mixture. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough evenly into the dish and trim any excess.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and spread it out evenly.
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Let the hunza pie cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Hunza Pie is a delightful and nutritious choice that's both satisfying and versatile. With a golden, flaky crust and a rich, creamy filling, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy it as a main course or a savory side, and relish in its wholesome goodness.
Hunza pie FAQ:
The Hunza Pie should bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
If you need a substitute for low-fat cottage cheese, you can use ricotta cheese or a silken tofu blend for a dairy-free option. Ensure the consistency is similar to maintain the filling’s texture.
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Just wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days before using. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.
The Hunza Pie is done when the filling is set—there should be no jiggle in the center—and the crust is golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the filling should come out clean.
To store leftover Hunza Pie, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Tips:
- Make sure to rinse the brown rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.
- You can substitute lowfat cottage cheese with ricotta cheese if preferred for a slightly different texture and flavor.
- Ensure the spinach is well-drained to prevent excess moisture from making the pie soggy.
- Blind bake the pie crust for a crispier base, preventing it from becoming soggy when the filling is added.
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving to help the filling set and make slicing easier.
Nutrition per serving
6 ServingsCalories 500kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 55g
Fiber 2.42g
Sugar 1.05g
Fat 24g
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