**Natchitoches Meat Pies: A Taste of Louisiana History and Delectable Flavors**
In the heart of Louisiana lies a culinary gem that has captivated taste buds for generations: Natchitoches Meat Pies. These delectable treats, originating in the city of Natchitoches, are a harmonious blend of French, Spanish, and Native American influences that have shaped Louisiana's rich cultural heritage. With a flaky, golden-brown crust encasing a savory filling of tender meat, aromatic spices, and a rich gravy, Natchitoches Meat Pies are not just a meal; they are an embodiment of Louisiana's culinary artistry.
Our article delves into the captivating history of Natchitoches Meat Pies, tracing their origins back to the 18th century, when French settlers and Native American tribes intertwined their culinary traditions. It explores the unique ingredients and techniques that set these pies apart, from the flaky pastry made with lard to the flavorful combination of pork, beef, and spices that create a symphony of flavors. We also uncover the secret behind the perfect gravy that elevates the meat pie experience.
But our journey doesn't stop at the traditional Natchitoches Meat Pie. We present creative variations that tantalize the palate with diverse flavors and textures. From a vegetarian version bursting with garden-fresh vegetables to a spicy rendition that ignites the senses, our collection of recipes caters to every taste preference.
So, embark on a culinary adventure and let the delectable allure of Natchitoches Meat Pies transport you to the heart of Louisiana's culinary heritage. With our detailed recipes and helpful tips, you'll be able to recreate these iconic pies in your own kitchen, delighting your family and friends with every bite. Let the flavors of Natchitoches Meat Pies captivate your senses and create lasting memories around your dinner table.
NATCHITOCHES MEAT PIES
The Natchitoches meat pies are famous in Louisiana and a 'must eat' when there. They are so good and a perfect little lunch. Cook time is an estimate, keep an eye on them.
Provided by kehn
Categories Meat and Poultry Recipes Pork Sausage
Time 1h25m
Yield 15
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat; whisk in flour, and cook until flour turns from white to a nutty brown color, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in onion and cook until transparent, about 5 minutes. Add meats and brown until no longer pink, 10 to 12 minutes; stir in Cajun seasoning and garlic powder; drain fat. Cool to room temperature.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch. Use a 5 inch diameter round cookie cutter or cut around a saucer to make a round of dough. Place a heaping tablespoon of meat filling in the center of each round. Fold dough over filling and seal edges closed by pressing with a fork or fingers. Repeat to make 15 pies, re-rolling dough scraps as needed.
- Heat oil for frying in deep fryer to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Deep fry pies in small batches until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Or bake pies on greased cookie sheets in preheated 350 degree F (175 degrees C) oven 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 337.7 calories, Carbohydrate 13.3 g, Cholesterol 35.9 mg, Fat 26.6 g, Fiber 1.1 g, Protein 10.9 g, SaturatedFat 7.1 g, Sodium 454.7 mg, Sugar 0.4 g
NATCHITOCHES MEAT PIES
Steps:
- In a large skillet heat oil and cook beef and pork, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 5 to 6 minutes. Add the onions, bell peppers, celery, salt, Essence, cayenne, and black pepper. Cook, stirring often, until the vegetables are wilted, about 10 to 12 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Dissolve the flour in the water and add to the meat mixture. Stir until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the green onions. Mix well and let cool.
- In a mixing bowl, sift together flour, salt, and baking powder. Cut in the lard until mixture resembles coarse meal. In a small bowl, beat the egg with the milk. Gradually add the egg mixture to the flour mixture, working it to make a thick dough. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll each portion of dough into a thin round about 5 inches in diameter. Place about 1/4 cup of meat filling in the center of each round and brush edges lightly with egg wash. Fold edges together and crimp closed with a fork.
- Heat shortening in a deep pot or electric deep-fryer to 360 degrees F. Fry the pies, in batches, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
- Combine all ingredients thoroughly and store in an airtight jar or container.
- Recipe from "New New Orleans Cooking", by Emeril Lagasse and Jessie Tirsch. Published by William and Morrow, 1993.
NATCHITOCHES MEAT PIES
You probably don't want to tackle these unless you have a morning or afternoon too spend in the kitchen! After moving to Texas and marrying a Texas man, I heard all about meat pies and what an awesome delicacy they were! I would call this recipe easy, but labor intensive! If you have a bad back - well let's just say, the...
Provided by Linda Stevens
Categories Savory Pies
Time 25m
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- 1. Combine beef, pork, onions, and seasonings in a large Dutch Oven. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the meat loses its color. Do not over cook the meat. Sift the 1/3 cup flour over meat mixture, stirring often, until well combined with the meat. Remove from heat and cool to room temp. Place meat in a large colander to drain off excess grease.
- 2. For crust, sift flour and cut shortening into flour. Add beaten eggs and cold milk. Form dough into a ball and then separate into 6 or 8 smaller balls of dough. Dough should be wet and a little sticky. Roll each ball of dough on a lightly floured board or pastry cloth. Cut dough into a 5 or 5 1/2 inch circle.
- 3. To assemble, place a heaping tablespoon of filling on one side of the pastry round. Dampen the edge of pie containing meat with fingertips, fold top over meat and crimp with fork dipped in water. Prick twice on top with fork. Fry in deep fat fryer at 350 degrees until golden brown. Pies freeze well in plastic sandwich bags. To fry frozen pies, do not thaw before frying.
- 4. Makes 48-56 small meat pies.
Tips:
- Use cold butter for the pastry. This will help to create a flaky crust.
- Don't overwork the pastry. Overworking will make the crust tough.
- Chill the pastry before rolling it out. This will help to prevent the pastry from shrinking in the oven.
- Preheat the oven before baking the pies. This will help to ensure that the pies cook evenly.
- Bake the pies until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the pies cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help to prevent the filling from spilling out.
Conclusion:
Natchitoches meat pies are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With a flaky crust and a flavorful filling, these pies are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, give Natchitoches meat pies a try!
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
#time-to-make #cuisine #preparation #north-american #american #cajun #southern-united-states #4-hours-or-less
You'll also love