Delia Smith Cheese And Onion Pie Recipe

Name: Delia Smith's Cheese and Onion Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 225g self-raising flour; 50g butter; 50g lard; Pinch of salt; 2-3 tbsp ice-cold water; 50g butter (for filling); 4 large onions, thinly sliced; 1-2 tbsp water; Salt and freshly ground white pepper; 225g Lancashire cheese, grated; Milk (for sealing and glazing)

Delve into the world of traditional British cuisine with the Cheese and Onion Pie, a dish that epitomizes comfort food with its rich, savory filling encased in flaky pastry. This recipe, inspired by Delia Smith's culinary expertise, offers a taste of the UK's hearty fare. Simon Hopkinson also shares a version of this classic in "The Good Cook," highlighting its significance in British cooking.

Cheese and Onion Pie: A Culinary Staple

Cheese and Onion Pie is not just food; it's a piece of British culinary heritage. It combines the sharpness of cheese with the sweetness of onions, all wrapped in a buttery pastry crust. Its simplicity belies the depth of flavor achieved, making it a beloved dish across the country.

Ingredients for the Cheese and Onion Pie

The pie uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients:

For the pastry: A mixture of butter, lard, self-raising flour, salt, and ice-cold water.
For the filling: Butter, onions, water, salt, freshly ground white pepper, and Lancashire cheese, with a little milk for sealing and glazing the pastry.

Preparation Instructions

Making the pie involves preparing a shortcrust pastry, sautéing onions until soft, layering the onions and grated cheese within the pastry, and baking until golden. The process is a delightful journey from preparing the dough to savoring the pie's golden crust, bubbling with the rich, melted cheese and softened onions.

Storage and Reheating

Cheese and Onion Pie is best enjoyed warm but can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated to maintain its texture and flavor. Proper storage in an airtight container ensures the pie remains delicious for subsequent servings.

Nutritional Information

This dish, rich in carbohydrates and dairy, offers a good balance of energy, protein, and fats. The exact nutritional values can vary based on the cheese used and the pie's size.

FAQ about the Cheese and Onion Pie

Can I use a different type of cheese? Lancashire cheese is traditional, but variations can accommodate taste or availability.
Is it suitable for vegetarians? Yes, this pie is vegetarian-friendly, focusing on cheese and onions as the main ingredients.

This homage to the Cheese and Onion Pie reflects its status as a staple of comfort food within the British Isles. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this recipe promises a delicious adventure into the heart of British cuisine.

For a detailed recipe, consider exploring Delia Smith's offerings or Simon Hopkinson's version in "The Good Cook" for an authentic taste of British comfort food.