Tourtiere(Quebecois Meat Pie)
A hearty Quebecois meat pie featuring a savory blend of ground meats and spices encased in a flaky crust, perfect for comforting family dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust and roll out the top and bottom crusts.
- Press the bottom crust into a large deep pie plate.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, beef, veal, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, sage, savory, celery seed, and ground cloves.
- Add water to the meat mixture and stir well.
- Mix in breadcrumbs gradually until the filling reaches the desired consistency.
- Fill the pie crust with the meat mixture.
- Cover with the rolled-out top crust and seal the edges.
- Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 60 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let the pie rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. If you don't have veal, you can substitute with additional ground beef or pork. Using fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the dish. Make sure to let the filling cool slightly before adding breadcrumbs to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve tourtiere hot, ideally with a side of pickles or a fresh green salad. It pairs beautifully with Country Borsch for a comforting meal. You can also offer a dollop of mustard or a tangy sauce on the side for extra flavor. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or holiday dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tourtiere in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also freeze the pie before baking; just wrap it tightly and it will keep for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tourtiere(Quebecois Meat Pie) contains roughly 339 calories, with 12g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1455mg per serving (63% 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 make tourtiere ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tourtiere a day in advance. Assemble the pie and store it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. This allows the flavors to meld together. Alternatively, you can freeze it unbaked and then bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with tourtiere?
Tourtiere is traditionally served with condiments like mustard or chutney. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier option, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a warm grain salad, which complements the savory flavors of the pie.
What can I substitute for the ground meats?
If you're looking for alternatives to the ground meats, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. A meatless option could include a mix of lentils and mushrooms, seasoned well to mimic the flavors of the traditional filling. Just ensure that any substitute maintains a similar texture to keep the pie's integrity.
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).