Sichuan Spiced Apple Pie

Ingredients

While the original American apple pie is known for its warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, our Sichuan Spiced Apple Pie takes a departure by incorporating the distinct flavors of Sichuan cuisine. We infuse the pie with Sichuan peppercorns, chili, and other traditional spices to create a harmonious balance between the sweet and spicy elements. This adaptation adds a unique twist to the beloved classic, giving it an exciting and unexpected flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Apple Pie, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water
• 6 cups (900g) apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 6 cups (900g) apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30g) cornstarch 2 tablespoons (30g) cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground star anise 1/4 teaspoon ground star anise
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar (for sprinkling) 1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 kJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 11g)
• Carbohydrates: 39g (Sugar: 22g)
• Protein: 3g
• 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 190°C (375°F).
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, crushed Sichuan peppercorns, chili flakes, ground ginger, ground cloves, and ground star anise. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish. Transfer the dough to the 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 remaining dough and cut it into strips. Create a lattice pattern on top of the pie by weaving the strips over and under each other.
8. 8.
   Brush the lattice crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
9. 9.
   Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sichuan peppercorns — Toast the peppercorns in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. Crush them using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
• Chili flakes — Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice preference. Add more for extra heat or reduce for a milder flavor.
• Ground star anise — For the best flavor, grind whole star anise in a spice grinder or use a mortar and pestle.

Tips & Tricks

• For a flaky crust, make sure the butter is cold and handle the dough as little as possible.
• Serve the pie warm with a scoop of Sichuan peppercorn ice cream for an extra spicy kick.
• If you prefer a sweeter pie, increase the amount of sugar in the filling.
• Experiment with different apple varieties for a unique flavor combination.
• Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Sichuan Spiced Apple Pie warm or at room temperature. Accompany it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the spiciness.

Presentation advice

Dust the top of the pie with a sprinkle of Sichuan peppercorns and chili flakes for an eye-catching presentation. Serve it on a decorative pie dish or plate to enhance its visual appeal.