Pigeon Pie
A hearty and flavorful meat pie combining tender pigeon, steak, and vegetables in a flaky pastry crust, ideal for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a 6 to 8-quart baking dish with pastry.
- Season the pigeons with salt and pepper.
- Put 1 tablespoon of butter in each cavity of the pigeons and fit them into the dish.
- Surround the pigeons with pieces of steak and a combination of two of the vegetables (artichoke pieces, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, or water chestnuts).
- Sprinkle the egg yolks over the mixture.
- Add water or chicken broth to the dish.
- Seal the top with pastry and cut slits in the pastry.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling. You can substitute the Rock Cornish hens with other game birds or chicken parts. If you have leftover vegetables, such as from a stir-fry, feel free to incorporate them. Ensure the pastry is well-sealed to keep the moisture in during baking for a juicy filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pigeon pie warm, garnished with fresh herbs for a touch of color. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving with crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices. For a complete dining experience, offer a glass of light red wine alongside.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil to retain moisture and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat the pastry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pigeon Pie contains roughly 111 calories, with 12g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (149% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.
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 use frozen hens for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Rock Cornish hens. Just ensure they are fully thawed in the refrigerator before cooking for even cooking results. This will help maintain the flavor and texture of the meat in your pigeon pie.
What vegetables work best in this pie?
While artichoke pieces, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms are great options, you can also use other vegetables like carrots or peas. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and meld well with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pie and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).