Indo-style Apple Pie

Ingredients

In this Indo-style Apple Pie, we infuse the classic American dessert with Indo spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The crust is also given an Indo twist by incorporating ghee, a traditional Indian clarified butter. These additions add a depth of flavor and a hint of warmth that perfectly complements the sweet and tart apples. 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, chilled and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ghee (Indian clarified butter) 1/4 cup (60ml) ghee (Indian clarified butter)
• 4-5 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 4-5 medium-sized 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
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar, for sprinkling 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar, for sprinkling

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 kJ
• Fat: 16g (10g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 42g (22g sugars)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and ghee. Use your fingertips to rub the butter and ghee into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape them into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
5. 5.
   Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish and gently press it into the bottom and sides.
6. 6.
   Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
7. 7.
   Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the apple filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
8. 8.
   Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
9. 9.
   Make a few slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
10. 10.
    Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes 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.
• Ghee — If you can't find ghee, you can substitute it with an equal amount of melted unsalted butter.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the apple filling.
• Serve the pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• If the crust starts to brown too quickly during baking, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Make sure to let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.

Serving advice

Serve the Indo-style Apple Pie warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a cup of chai tea or a scoop of cardamom-flavored ice cream.

Presentation advice

Dust the top of the pie with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving to add a touch of elegance. You can also garnish each slice with a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.