Hunza pie

Discover the delicious Hunza Pie, a wholesome vegetarian dish featuring a buttery crust made from white wheat flour, filled with a nutritious blend of brown rice, spinach, cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, and protein-rich eggs. Perfect for a hearty meal!

27 May 2025
Cook time 95 min
Prep time 30 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter
1.50 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

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:

1. Prepare the Dough:
- 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.
2. Cook the Rice:
- 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.
3. Prepare the Spinach:
- 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.
4. Prepare the Filling:
- 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.
5. Assemble the Pie:
- 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.
6. Bake the Pie:
- 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.
7. Serve:
- Let the hunza pie cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy!

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.

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.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 500kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 55g
Fiber 2.42g
Sugar 1.05g
Fat 24g

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