Tourtiere(French Canadian Pork Pie)
A flaky, buttery dough perfect for holding tender pork fillings, this Tourtière showcases classic French‑Canadian comfort with a crisp crust and savory center, ideal for holiday feasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1. In a bowl
- mix flour
- brown sugar
- salt
- and baking powder;
- 2. Cut in Crisco or lard until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- 3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with vinegar and add cold water to reach 3/4 cup of liquid.
- 4. Sprinkle the egg mixture over the flour mixture and toss with a fork until combined.
- 5. Use the dough immediately or store it in the refrigerator for several weeks; it can also be frozen.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure that your fat, whether Crisco or lard, is very cold before cutting it into the flour mixture. You can substitute half of the lard with butter for added flavor, but keep the texture in mind. If you want a richer pie, consider adding finely chopped mushrooms or diced potatoes to the meat filling for added moisture and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your tourtiere with a side of tangy pickles or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the pie. A dollop of homemade apple sauce can also enhance the flavors. For a cozy dessert, consider pairing it with Aebleskiver (Danish Pancake Balls) for a festive touch or browse more vegetarian recipes to complement the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tourtiere in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can freeze the pie before baking; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will last for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tourtiere(French Canadian Pork Pie) contains roughly 2352 calories, with 23g protein, 270g carbohydrates, and 133g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (73% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of fat instead of lard?
Yes, you can use butter or a combination of butter and Crisco for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that butter will give a slightly different texture, so adjust your expectations accordingly.
How do I know when the tourtiere is done baking?
The tourtiere is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating, and reheat it slightly before filling the pie crust.
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).