Mincemeat(Makes One 8-Inch Pie)
A flavorful, spiced mincemeat filling with apples, raisins, and warm spices, perfect for holiday pies and festive gatherings, offering a rich, fruity taste with aromatic notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break the ground meat up and cook slowly in a little oil without browning.
- Put the cooked meat and chopped apples in a food processor and pulse to grind slightly.
- Return the mixture to the pan.
- Add remaining ingredients and bring slowly to a boil.
- Turn down the heat and cover.
- Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Cool the mixture.
- Store in the fridge for 2 to 3 days to allow flavors to meld.
- Spoon the mincemeat into an 8-inch unbaked pie shell.
- Top with another crust, either solid or cut into strips and crisscrossed.
- Add a little brandy to taste if desired.
- Bake in a 425°F oven for 10 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and turkey, or even adding a touch of brandy while cooking. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or chopped mushrooms. Adjust sugar levels based on the sweetness of your apples; tart varieties can enhance the mincemeat's flavor. Always taste and adjust spices as needed for personal preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this mincemeat pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with *Steak With Sour Cream Sauce(Makes 6 Servings)* for a hearty meal. For a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover mincemeat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, ensuring it is heated through but not overcooked, to preserve its texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mincemeat(Makes One 8-Inch Pie) contains roughly 367 calories, with 5g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the mincemeat ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mincemeat up to 3 days in advance. Allow it to cool before storing it in the fridge to let the flavors meld. This makes it easier to assemble the pie when you're ready to bake.
What can I use instead of ground beef or turkey?
For a vegetarian alternative, consider using lentils or finely chopped mushrooms, which can provide a similar texture. You can also use tempeh or a plant-based meat substitute to maintain the savory profile of the dish.
How can I make the pie crust from scratch?
To make a simple pie crust, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1/2 cup of cold butter, cut into cubes. Mix until crumbly, then add 1/4 cup of cold water gradually until the dough forms. Chill for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).