Herbolace Pie
Description
This classic Herbolace Pie is a hearty, savory dish perfect for a comforting lunch or light dinner. The filling combines smooth curd cheese and cottage cheese with fresh mint, parsley, and chives, creating a vibrant, herbaceous base. Four eggs are nestled into hollows within the cheese mixture, then encased in a golden shortcrust pastry crust. The result is a tender, custard-like texture with a rich, cheesy flavor and a fresh herbal kick. It is best served warm with a simple green salad or tomato salad. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional quiche, offering a satisfying meal that is both elegant and home-style.Ingredients
Directions
-
Make the shortcrust pastry using 8 oz flour (preferably whole wheat) and set aside half of it.
-
Sieve 6 oz curd cheese and 4 oz cottage cheese together to create a smooth mixture.
-
Finely chop fresh mint, parsley, and chives.
-
Beat the chopped herbs into the cheese mixture until evenly distributed and green-flecked.
-
Stir in 2 tablespoons of milk, salt, and pepper to taste.
-
Use the reserved half of the pastry to line an 8 1/2-inch pie plate.
-
Spoon the cheese mixture into the pastry-lined pie plate, spreading it evenly.
-
Make four hollows in the cheese mixture with the back of a spoon and crack an egg into each hollow.
-
Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and a good grinding of black pepper.
-
Scatter at least 3 tablespoons of fresh mint and 1 tablespoon of chives over the top.
-
Sprinkle 2 oz of generously grated mature cheddar cheese over the top.
-
Cover the pie with the remaining pastry, sealing the edges and fluting them decoratively.
-
Brush the top with beaten egg glaze and cut a few steam slits in the center.
-
Place the pie on a preheated baking sheet and bake at 425&# 194;°F (220ðC) for 25 minutes.
-
Reduce the oven temperature to 375ðF (190ðC) and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the pastry is golden and the eggs are set.
-
Allow the pie to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 109.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 5.5g9%
- Saturated Fat 2.5g13%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 91.5mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 13.2g5%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 0.4g
- Protein 1.8g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Serve warm with a fresh tomato salad or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
For the pastry, ensure the flour is preferably whole wheat for a heartier texture, though plain flour works well too.
Sieving the cheeses is crucial for a smooth, lump-free filling. If curd cheese is unavailable, a similar soft cheese like ricotta can be used, but may require straining.
Do not skip the cooling time; it allows the filling to set slightly, making the pie easier to slice cleanly.