Aloo pie

Aloo Pie Overview

Aloo pie is a delightful dish from Trinidad and Tobago that combines savory flavors with flaky pastry. It consists of a filling made primarily from spiced potatoes (aloo), often incorporating ingredients like peas, channa (chickpeas), and sometimes meat or seafood. The mixture is encased in a buttery pastry dough and baked until golden and crispy. This dish reflects the rich cultural diversity of Trinidad and Tobago, blending Indian, African, and European culinary traditions.

Aloo Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Filling:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, grated or chopped
– 1/4 cup frozen peas
– 1 can chickpeas (channa), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked shredded chicken, beef, or seafood

For the Pastry Dough:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 6-8 tablespoons ice water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
   • Add the green bell pepper and carrot; cook for another 5 minutes.
   • Stir in curry powder and cumin, cooking for an additional minute to release the spices’ flavors.
   • Mash the boiled potatoes with a fork or potato masher. Mix them into the skillet along with peas and chickpeas. Season with salt and black pepper.
   • If using meat or seafood, add it now and combine thoroughly.
   • Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Make the Pastry Dough:
   • In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
   • Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until dough starts to come together. You may not need all the water.
   • Form the dough into two equal balls and flatten them slightly. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble and Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Roll out one ball of dough on a floured surface to fit a pie dish, leaving some overhang.
   • Place the rolled-out pastry in the pie dish and fill with the potato mixture.
   • Roll out the second ball of dough and place it over the filling. Crimp the edges together to seal. Cut slits or decorative shapes into the top crust for steam release.
   • Brush the top with a little beaten egg (optional, for a shiny finish).
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the pastry is golden brown.
4. Serve:
   • Allow the aloo pie to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade Trinidadian aloo pie!

Image model: PixelAlchemy

Global Gourmet 🍴

Welcome to my kitchen! I’m Global Gourmet , a foodie with a taste for adventure . Every day, I’ll be sharing a new recipe from around the world , featuring dishes from cultures near and far . From spicy curries to hearty stews , I’ll share the stories behind the meals and provide simple recipes to help you cook like a local .

Follow along for daily doses of culinary inspiration and global flavors !