Tourtiere(Meat Pie)
A hearty meat pie featuring savory ground pork, spiced with allspice, cloves, and cinnamon, wrapped in flaky pastry—perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover ground pork and chopped onions with water and cook uncovered on medium-high heat until the water evaporates and the fat remains. Drain excess liquid.
- Add allspice, cloves, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Crush 4 saltines and add them to absorb excess fat. Let cool slightly.
- Pour the meat mixture into an unbaked pie shell.
- Cover with pastry crust, prick the top to allow steam to escape.
- Bake at 450°F for 10 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking until the crust is light brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground meats, such as beef or veal, in addition to pork. If you're looking for a lighter option, turkey can also work well. When adding spices, taste as you go to customize to your preference. To prevent a soggy crust, ensure your meat mixture is well-drained and consider blind-baking the pie shell briefly before adding the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Tourtière is traditionally served with a side of pickles or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. A dollop of mustard or cranberry sauce can enhance the flavors. Pair it with a hearty soup or a side of Kugelis for a comforting dinner. This dish also goes well with a glass of red wine for a cozy evening.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tourtière in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tourtiere(Meat Pie) contains roughly 315 calories, with 17g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1206mg per serving (52% 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 meat for tourtière?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef, turkey, or a combination of meats to suit your taste. Mixing in some veal can also add a unique flavor. Just ensure the total amount of meat remains the same for the best texture.
How can I make the crust flakier?
For a flakier crust, use cold butter and handle the dough minimally. You can also incorporate a bit of vinegar or lemon juice into the dough for added tenderness. Chilling the dough before rolling it out can also help achieve a flaky texture.
Is tourtière served hot or cold?
Tourtière can be enjoyed hot from the oven or served cold, making it a versatile dish. It's often served at festive gatherings or potlucks, where it can be enjoyed at room temperature. Reheating it enhances the flavors, but it holds up well even when served cold.
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).