Apple Pie with a Middle Eastern Twist

Ingredients

While the original American apple pie is known for its flaky crust and sweet apple filling, our Arabian adaptation incorporates aromatic spices like cinnamon and rose water, as well as the addition of pistachios for a delightful crunch. These flavors bring a unique twist to the traditional apple pie, making it a truly memorable dessert. We alse have the original recipe for Apple Pie, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water
• 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon rose water 1 teaspoon rose water
• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pistachios 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pistachios
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 16g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 42g (Sugar: 22g)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, lemon juice, and rose water. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
5. 5.
   Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the dish and trim any excess.
6. 6.
   Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture and sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top.
7. 7.
   Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
8. 8.
   Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose firm and tart varieties such as Granny Smith or Braeburn for the best flavor and texture.
• Rose water — Use a high-quality rose water to ensure a delicate floral aroma without overpowering the other flavors.
• Pistachios — Toast the pistachios lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a flakier crust, freeze the cubed butter for 15 minutes before incorporating it into the flour.
• Serve the pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can increase the amount of granulated sugar or add a drizzle of honey to the apple mixture.

Serving advice

Serve the Arabian Apple Delight warm or at room temperature. Dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. This pie pairs beautifully with a cup of aromatic Arabic coffee or a soothing cup of mint tea.

Presentation advice

To enhance the Middle Eastern theme, garnish the pie with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios and a few dried rose petals. Serve it on a decorative platter or cake stand for an eye-catching presentation.