Thai-Inspired Apple Pie

Ingredients

While the original American apple pie is known for its buttery crust and cinnamon-spiced filling, this Thai-inspired version incorporates Thai spices and coconut into both the crust and the filling. The addition of ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, and coconut milk gives this apple pie a delightful Thai twist that sets it apart from the traditional version. We alse have the original recipe for Apple Pie, so you can check it out.

• For the crust: For the crust:
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut milk 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut milk 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey
• 1 tablespoon (15g) cornstarch 1 tablespoon (15g) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised and chopped 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised and chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 14g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 47g (28g sugars)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the crust. Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk and honey. Pour the mixture into the flour mixture and stir until the dough comes together.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until it forms a smooth ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. 5.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, coconut milk, lime juice, honey, cornstarch, grated ginger, lemongrass, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt for the filling. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
6. 6.
   Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out one portion on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish and press it gently into the bottom and sides.
7. 7.
   Pour the apple filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
8. 8.
   Roll out the second portion of dough and cut it into thin strips. Arrange the strips in a lattice pattern over the filling.
9. 9.
   Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10. 10.
    Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Bruise the lemongrass stalk by lightly pounding it with a rolling pin or the back of a knife. This helps release its aromatic oils and enhances the flavor of the filling.
• Coconut milk — Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture in both the crust and the filling.
• Ginger — Freshly grated ginger provides the best flavor. Use a microplane or fine grater to grate the ginger finely.
• Apples — Choose firm and tart apples such as Granny Smith or Braeburn for the best results in the pie filling.
• Cornstarch — Mix the cornstarch with a little water before adding it to the filling to prevent clumping.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
• Serve the pie warm with a scoop of coconut ice cream for a truly indulgent Thai dessert experience.
• If you prefer a sweeter pie, increase the amount of honey or brown sugar in the filling.
• To save time, you can use store-bought pie crust instead of making your own.
• Experiment with different Thai spices like star anise or cloves to add more complexity to the flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Thai-inspired apple pie warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with a dollop of coconut whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch of Thai flair.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the top of the pie with powdered sugar before serving. You can also garnish with fresh mint leaves or a slice of lime for a pop of color.