Mary Berry Turkey And Ham Pie

Dive into the comfort of a classic British dish with Mary Berry's Turkey and Ham Pie—a hearty, savory pie that combines tender turkey and ham with a creamy sauce, all encased in a golden, flaky pastry. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover meats and adding a touch of elegance to your table.

Cultural or Historical Context The tradition of pie making in British cuisine extends back centuries, with meat pies being a staple in the UK. Mary Berry, a revered figure in British baking, brings her culinary expertise to this dish, making it a must-try for those looking to savor classic British flavors.

Ingredients List For a delightful Turkey and Ham Pie, you'll need:

• For the Pastry: 225g plain flour, 60g butter, 60g lard, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 egg for the dough. Another egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water is used for glazing.
• For the Filling: 400g cooked turkey, 300g cooked ham, and 145g mushrooms, enhanced with a tablespoon of oil.
• For the Sauce: A creamy concoction made from 250ml milk, 250ml chicken stock, 1 teaspoon dried tarragon, 30g flour, 30g butter, with salt and pepper to taste if desired.

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin with preparing the pastry by mixing flour, butter, lard, and salt. Add egg to form a dough, then chill.
2. For the filling, sauté mushrooms in oil, set aside, then prepare the sauce with butter, flour, milk, and chicken stock, adding tarragon for flavor.
3. Combine the turkey, ham, and mushrooms with the sauce, and place in a pie dish covered with the rolled-out pastry.
4. Glaze with an egg wash and bake until golden and crisp.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Wrap the pie or place it in an airtight container and store for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Cool, portion, wrap, and freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C until piping hot. For individual portions, cover with foil during oven reheating to ensure even heating​​​​.

Nutritional Information Each serving of Turkey and Ham Pie offers a balanced mix of proteins from the meats, carbohydrates from the pastry, and fats from the butter and lard, totaling approximately 435 kcal per serving. The inclusion of mushrooms adds a nutritious boost of minerals and vitamins​​.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I substitute the meats? Yes, feel free to use other meats like chicken or beef.
• Can I add vegetables? Absolutely! Adding peas or carrots can increase the pie's nutritional value.
• How can I make the pie crustier? Ensure the oven is properly preheated and consider using an egg wash for a golden finish.

For those seeking to enjoy a sumptuous, warming dish that embodies the essence of British comfort food, Mary Berry's Turkey and Ham Pie is an excellent choice. Its versatility in ingredients allows for customization to your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.