This delightful vegetarian tourtiere recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy the taste of a traditional meat pie without the meat. The use of texturized vegetable protein and vegetable flakes provides the satisfying texture of meat, while mushrooms and spices add rich flavors. This dish is perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike, and it's sure to impress at any dinner party.
Texturized Vegetable Protein (TVP) and vegetable flakes are key ingredients in this recipe, which may not be available in your local supermarket. TVP is a high-fiber, high-protein meat substitute made from soy flour, and can be found in health food stores or online. Vegetable flakes, which are dehydrated vegetables, can be found in some supermarkets, usually in the soup aisle, or can be ordered online.
Ingredients for Vegetarian Tourtiere Delight
Vegetable broth: This forms the base for your filling, providing moisture and flavor.
Texturized Vegetable Protein (TVP): TVP is a high-protein, high-fiber meat substitute.
Vegetable flakes: These add texture and veggie flavor to your filling.
Butter: This helps to sautee the vegetables, adding richness to the dish.
Onion: This adds a savory depth to the filling.
Mushrooms: These provide a meaty texture and umami flavor.
Bread crumbs: To help bind the filling together.
Spices (peppercorns, sea salt, thyme, savory, cloves, nutmeg): These add complexity to the filling's flavor.
Beer: This adds depth and a unique twist to the filling.
Egg: Used for the egg wash, giving the crust a golden finish.
Milk: Used for the egg wash.
Refrigerated pie crusts: These are your base and topping for the tourtiere.
One reader, Dorita Goetz says:
This vegetarian tourtiere delight recipe is a game-changer! The blend of savory mushrooms, onions, and spices creates a rich and satisfying filling. The flaky crust is the perfect complement. It's a delightful twist on a classic dish that's sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Techniques Required for Vegetarian Tourtiere Delight
How to rehydrate texturized vegetable protein (TVP): Soak the TVP in boiling vegetable broth for 15 minutes until it becomes soft and rehydrated.
How to sauté mushrooms and onions: Cook the mushrooms and onions in melted butter over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
How to assemble the tourtiere: Line a deep-dish pie plate with one round of prepared pastry, pour the vegetable mixture into the pastry shell, place the top round of prepared pastry on top of the filling, and brush the top of the pastry with an egg and milk mixture before baking.
How to bake the tourtiere: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C), then bake the tourtiere for 15 minutes. Lower the oven temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and continue baking for 30 to 40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
How To Make Vegetarian Tourtiere
This vegetarian tourtiere is a healthy take on a French-Canadian classic. It is filled with hearty mushrooms and a tasty medley of different spices.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2cupsvegetable broth
- 2cupstexturized vegetable protein (TVP)
- ½cupdried vegetable flakes
- 3tbspbutter
- 1cuponionminced
- 2cupsmushroomsminced
- 2cupsbread crumbs
- 1tspfreshly cracked peppercorns
- ½tspsea salt
- ½tspdried thyme leaves
- ½tspdried summer savory leaves
- 1pinchground cloves
- 1pinchfresh ground nutmeg
- 12ozbeerroom temperature
- 1eggbeaten
- 1tbspmilk
- 2refrigerated pie crusts(9-inch)
- 1tspwater
Instructions
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Pour the vegetable broth into a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
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Measure the texturized vegetable protein and vegetable flakes into a large mixing bowl.
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Pour the boiling broth over the texturized vegetable protein and vegetable flakes and soak for 15 minutes.
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Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the mushrooms and onions. Cook and stir for about 10 minutes or until soft.
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Stir the texturized vegetable protein and vegetable flake mixture in with the mushroom and onions.
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Pour the beer into the skillet with the vegetable mixture; remove from heat and cool.
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Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
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Whisk the egg and milk together in a small bowl.
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Line a deep-dish pie plate with one round of the prepared pastry. Pour the vegetable mixture into the pastry shell.
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Prepare the top pastry by cutting a 2 to 3-inch hole in the center of the round using a knife or a decorative cookie cutter.
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Moisten the edges of the bottom round with water.
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Place the top round of prepared pastry on top of the filling, pressing around the edges and crimping to seal.
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Brush the top of the pastry with the egg and milk mixture.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
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Lower the oven temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and continue baking for 30 to 40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Nutrition
- Calories: 230.52kcal
- Fat: 10.59g
- Saturated Fat: 4.41g
- Trans Fat: 0.09g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.74g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.41g
- Carbohydrates: 28.52g
- Fiber: 2.04g
- Sugar: 1.51g
- Protein: 4.03g
- Cholesterol: 15.82mg
- Sodium: 292.17mg
- Calcium: 41.29mg
- Potassium: 135.90mg
- Iron: 1.28mg
- Vitamin A: 60.27µg
- Vitamin C: 2.52mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Vegetarian Tourtiere Delight
When preparing the texturized vegetable protein and vegetable flakes, ensure they are fully soaked in the vegetable broth before adding them to the skillet. This will ensure they are fully hydrated and will absorb the flavors from the mushrooms and onions. Additionally, when adding the beer to the skillet, make sure the mixture is off the heat. This will prevent the alcohol from evaporating too quickly and will allow the flavors to meld together. Lastly, when sealing the pie crusts, be sure to crimp the edges firmly. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during baking and will also give your tourtiere a beautiful, professional look.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Vegetarian Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the vegetable mixture and pastry ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake.
Use store-bought pastry: Save time by using pre-made refrigerated pie crusts instead of making the pastry from scratch.
Quick soak: Instead of soaking the texturized vegetable protein and vegetable flakes in hot broth, use hot water for a quicker soaking process.
Double batch: Make a double batch of the vegetable mixture and freeze half for a future meal, saving time on preparation later.
Efficient assembly: Use a deep-dish pie plate for easier assembly and to accommodate the generous filling without spillover.
Convection bake: Consider using a convection oven for faster and more even baking of the vegetarian tourtiere delight.
Substitute Ingredients For Vegetarian Tourtiere Recipe
vegetable broth - Substitute with mushroom broth: Mushroom broth adds a rich, savory flavor similar to vegetable broth and complements the earthy notes of the tourtiere delight.
texturized vegetable protein (tvp) - Substitute with lentils: Cooked lentils provide a similar meaty texture and are a nutritious alternative to tvp.
dried vegetable flakes - Substitute with freshly grated vegetables: Freshly grated vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can add a burst of color and flavor to the dish.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a heart-healthy alternative to butter and adds a subtle fruity note to the recipe.
mushrooms - Substitute with chopped eggplant: Chopped eggplant can provide a similar meaty texture and absorb the flavors of the dish, making it a suitable replacement for mushrooms.
bread crumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer a light, crispy texture and can be used as a substitute for traditional breadcrumbs in the recipe.
freshly cracked peppercorns - Substitute with ground black pepper: Ground black pepper can be used as a substitute for freshly cracked peppercorns to add a warm, pungent flavor to the dish.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used as a substitute for sea salt and provides a clean, pure saltiness to the recipe.
dried thyme leaves - Substitute with dried rosemary: Dried rosemary can be used as a substitute for thyme to add a piney, woody flavor to the tourtiere delight.
dried summer savory leaves - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram can provide a similar savory and slightly sweet flavor, making it a suitable replacement for summer savory leaves.
ground cloves - Substitute with allspice: Allspice can be used as a substitute for ground cloves and adds a warm, aromatic flavor with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
fresh ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used as a substitute for nutmeg to add a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor to the recipe.
beer - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute for beer, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal mixed with water can be used as a vegan-friendly alternative to eggs, providing binding properties to the recipe.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to milk, adding a subtle nutty flavor to the dish.
refrigerated pie crusts - Substitute with homemade pie crusts: Homemade pie crusts can be made using flour, butter, and water, providing a fresher and customizable alternative to store-bought crusts.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for water to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Presenting Vegetarian Tourtiere Delight
- Elevate the crust: Create a flaky and golden-brown crust that is perfectly baked to add a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top of the tourtiere to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Plate with precision: Carefully place each slice on the plate, ensuring that the filling is beautifully displayed and the crust is intact.
- Accompany with a side salad: Serve the tourtiere delight alongside a vibrant mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the savory pie.
- Drizzle with a reduction: Create a flavorful balsamic reduction and delicately drizzle it around the plate for an elegant and sophisticated touch.
Essential Tools for Making Vegetarian Tourtiere
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and often a lid, used for boiling, stewing, or making sauces.
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together, often available in various sizes.
- Pie plate: A round, shallow dish with sloping sides, specifically designed for baking pies.
- Pastry brush: A kitchen tool with bristles used for applying egg wash or melted butter to pastries and other baked goods.
- Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together.
- Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used to flatten and shape dough for baking.
- Decorative cookie cutter: A tool used to cut out decorative shapes from cookie dough or pastry.
Storing and Freezing Vegetarian Tourtiere Delight
Let the vegetarian tourtiere cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the crust soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the cooled tourtiere tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the tourtiere:
- Wrap the cooled pie tightly in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer will help protect against freezer burn.
- Label the wrapped tourtiere with the date and contents.
- Place the wrapped pie in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag for extra protection.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
To reheat the frozen tourtiere:
- Remove the pie from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the wrapping and place the tourtiere on a baking sheet.
- Cover the edges of the crust with strips of aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. If the crust starts to brown too much, you can cover the entire pie loosely with foil.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed to your liking.
How To Reheat Leftover Vegetarian Tourtiere Delight
To reheat leftover vegetarian tourtiere, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the crust is crisp. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to ensure a crispy crust.
For a quicker method, you can reheat individual slices of tourtiere in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the crust is slightly softened. To maintain a crispy crust, you can place the microwaved slice under the broiler for a minute or two after reheating.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover vegetarian tourtiere. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of the pie in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the crust is crispy.
For a stovetop method, place a slice of tourtiere in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the filling is hot and the crust is crispy. You can add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet to help crisp up the crust.
If you want to reheat the entire vegetarian tourtiere but don't want to use the oven, you can use a slow cooker. Place the leftover pie in the slow cooker and cover it with the lid. Cook on low heat for 1-2 hours, or until the filling is hot and the crust is slightly softened. This method is best for maintaining a moist filling, but the crust may not be as crispy as other reheating methods.
Interesting Fact About Vegetarian Tourtiere Delight
Tourtière is a traditional French-Canadian meat pie, but this vegetarian version is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, perfect for those looking for a meat-free alternative.
Is Making Vegetarian Tourtiere at Home Cost-Effective?
This vegetarian tourtiere delight recipe offers a cost-effective option for households. With affordable ingredients like texturized vegetable protein and mushrooms, it provides a budget-friendly alternative to traditional meat-based dishes. The use of pantry staples like vegetable broth and dried vegetable flakes further enhances its cost-effectiveness. Considering the minimal cost of the ingredients, this recipe is a great option for families looking to save on their grocery bills. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe a 7 for its affordability and delicious flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-20, making it a pocket-friendly choice.
Is This Vegetarian Dish Healthy?
The vegetarian tourtiere delight recipe offers a meatless twist on a classic French-Canadian dish. While it contains some nutritious ingredients like vegetables and protein-rich texturized vegetable protein (TVP), there are a few aspects that could be improved to make it healthier:
- The recipe includes butter and pie crusts, which are high in saturated fats and calories
- Breadcrumbs are used as a filler, adding extra carbohydrates and potentially unwanted additives
- Beer is used for flavoring, which adds alcohol and extra calories to the dish
- The sodium content may be high due to the use of vegetable broth and added salt
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the butter with a healthier cooking oil like olive oil or avocado oil
- Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pie crusts to increase fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates
- Substitute the breadcrumbs with healthier alternatives like ground nuts, seeds, or rolled oats for added nutrients and texture
- Use a non-alcoholic beer or replace it with a flavorful vegetable stock to reduce alcohol and calorie content
- Reduce the amount of added salt and choose low-sodium vegetable broth to control sodium intake
- Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the filling, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient profile and fiber content of the dish
- Serve the tourtiere with a side salad or steamed vegetables to create a more balanced and nutritious meal
Editor's Opinion on Vegetarian Tourtiere Delight
The vegetarian tourtiere delight recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional French-Canadian meat pie. The use of texturized vegetable protein and a flavorful blend of spices creates a rich and savory filling, while the addition of mushrooms and onions adds depth to the dish. The beer infusion brings a unique and robust flavor to the pie. The golden, flaky crust perfectly complements the hearty filling. This vegetarian tourtiere is a delicious and satisfying option for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Enhance Your Vegetarian Tourtiere Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Vegetarian Tourtiere Delight
Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Vegetarian Tourtiere
Why trust this Vegetarian Tourtiere Recipe:
This vegetarian tourtiere delight recipe offers a flavorful and hearty alternative to the traditional meat-based tourtiere. With texturized vegetable protein and dried vegetable flakes as the main ingredients, it provides a satisfying and protein-rich dish. The combination of mushrooms and onions adds depth and savory flavors, while the blend of dried herbs and spices creates a delightful aroma. The addition of beer infuses a unique richness, and the golden, flaky crust made with refrigerated pie crusts completes this delectable creation. Trust in this recipe for a delightful, vegetarian twist on a classic dish.
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