Marlborough Pie with a Chinese Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional English Marlborough Pie is transformed into a Chinese-inspired dish by incorporating ingredients and spices commonly used in Overseas Chinese cuisine. The addition of minced pork, mushrooms, water chestnuts, and Chinese spices infuses the pie with a distinct flavor profile. Furthermore, the use of lotus leaves adds an authentic Chinese touch, enhancing the aroma and presentation of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Marlborough 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
• 1/2 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
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 250g minced pork 250g minced pork
• 100g mushrooms, finely chopped 100g mushrooms, finely chopped
• 100g water chestnuts, finely chopped 100g water chestnuts, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 lotus leaves, soaked in water 2 lotus leaves, soaked in water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 2g
• Protein: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold 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 ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the minced pork to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in the mushrooms, water chestnuts, Chinese five-spice powder, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the skillet and cook until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Line the pie dish with the rolled-out dough.
8. 8.
   Place the soaked lotus leaves on the bottom of the pie dish, allowing them to hang over the edges.
9. 9.
   Pour the cooled filling mixture into the pie dish, on top of the lotus leaves.
10. 10.
    Fold the lotus leaves over the filling, covering it completely. Trim any excess leaves.
11. 11.
    Roll out the remaining dough and cover the pie, sealing the edges. Cut a few slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape.
12. 12.
    Bake the pie for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lotus leaves — Soak the lotus leaves in water for at least 30 minutes before using to ensure they become pliable and easy to fold. Trim off any tough stems before placing them in the pie dish.

Tips & Tricks

• If you can't find lotus leaves, you can substitute with banana leaves or parchment paper for a similar effect.
• Feel free to customize the filling by adding vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bamboo shoots.
• Serve the pie with a side of chili sauce or soy sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
• Make sure to let the pie cool slightly before slicing to allow the filling to set.
• Leftover pie can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for a delicious next-day meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Savory Lotus Leaf Pie warm as a main dish accompanied by a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as a savory snack or appetizer.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the pie with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or cilantro before serving. The lotus leaves add a touch of elegance, so be sure to showcase them by folding them neatly over the filling.