Authentic French Canadian Meat Pie (Tourtière) for Comfort and Tradition

Nothing beats a classic French Canadian Meat Pie on a chilly day. Known as tourtière, this dish is a delightful combination of seasoned meat and flaky pastry, perfect for celebrations or comfort meals. Let’s explore a simple, satisfying recipe that brings a taste of tradition to your table.

Why This Recipe Works

• Simple ingredients meld into deep, savory flavors.
• One dish meal makes cleanup easy.
• Flaky crust with juicy filling delivers perfect texture.
• Customizable seasonings to fit your palate.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 prepared pie crusts
• 1 egg, beaten

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Mixing spoon
• 9-inch pie dish
• Oven
• Pastry brush

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground pork and beef. Cook while breaking up the meat with a spoon. Once browned, add diced onion and minced garlic. Stir frequently until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Cooking the garlic and onions fully enhances their flavor, setting a robust base for the pie.

Step 2: Simmer the Mixture

Add 1/2 cup of water and thyme to the meat mixture. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows spices to blend with the meat, creating a harmonious filling. Simmering helps achieve a tender texture in the meat, making sure all flavorful pieces are thoroughly cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare the Pie Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9-inch pie dish with one of the prepared pie crusts. Make sure the crust extends slightly over the edges for sealing later. Using pre-made crusts simplifies preparation, but feel free to use homemade if desired for a more traditional touch. This personalizes both flavor and presentation.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Pie

Pour the meat mixture into the pie crust in the dish, smoothing it out evenly. Cover with the second pie crust. Trim any excess and crimp edges to seal. Cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. If your top crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Brush the beaten egg over the top crust using a pastry brush. This creates a beautiful golden sheen. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving. The egg wash imparts an appealing look and adds a slight richness to the crust’s texture.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a combination of different meat mixes for richer flavor profiles.
• Allow the pie to rest before slicing to prevent the filling from spilling.
• Freeze extra pies unbaked, then bake frozen at 425°F for easy future meals.

Recipe Variations

• Replace beef with turkey for a lighter version.
• Add chopped mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Include diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
• Enhance with a sprinkle of nutmeg for warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the pie in advance? Yes, you can prepare the pie up to step 4, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed in step 5.

What side dishes go well with tourtière? Tourtière pairs wonderfully with simple side salads or roasted vegetables. Mashed potatoes or steamed greens are also excellent complements.

Can I use store-bought crusts? Absolutely. Store-bought crusts save time and effort. Look for those labeled ‘all-butter’ for better flavor. If homemade, a classic pâte brisée works perfectly.

Summary

This French Canadian Meat Pie offers a slice of tradition with every bite. Its convenient preparation and hearty flavor make it ideal for year-round enjoyment.