Growing up, my family always made pies during the holidays. The rich smell of baking filling the house, the anticipation of digging into that first bite-nothing beat it. One recipe that became a staple after Thanksgiving was Jamie Oliver’s Turkey and Ham Pie. It’s not only a fantastic way to use up leftovers, but it also brings all the savory comfort of a hearty homemade pie. It’s like turning a holiday meal into a cozy, filling treat that tastes just as good-if not better-the next day.
I still remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s version. The flaky crust. The creamy filling. The chunks of turkey and ham mixed with rich gravy-everything I loved about Thanksgiving, but in a pie. It’s an easy recipe that’s both delicious and heartwarming.
Jamie Oliver’s Turkey And Ham Pie Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Turkey and Ham Pie is straightforward yet packed with flavor. He knows how to take a traditional pie and elevate it with a few simple tweaks. The recipe is designed to be simple enough for a weekday dinner but still impressive enough for any gathering. Here’s what you can expect from it:
- Flaky, golden pastry that crisps perfectly.
- Savory turkey and ham-rich and tender.
- Velvety gravy that binds everything together with flavor.
This pie feels like the embodiment of comfort. Whether it’s post-Christmas leftovers or a planned dinner, it never disappoints.
Ingredients Needed
When I first made this pie, I was surprised at how few ingredients were required for something that tasted so indulgent. You probably already have most of them in your kitchen, which makes it even easier to throw together. Here’s the breakdown:
- Shortcrust pastry: You can buy this pre-made or make your own. The flaky crust is essential.
- Turkey: Leftover turkey works best, but fresh turkey is great too.
- Ham: Use a good quality ham, ideally something that’s been baked or roasted.
- Onions: Adds that savory base flavor to the filling.
- Garlic: Just a hint of garlic enhances the richness.
- Carrots: A little sweetness to balance the saltiness of the ham.
- Celery: Adds a slight crunch and freshness.
- Chicken stock: Creates a rich gravy that ties everything together.
- Heavy cream: Makes the filling luxurious and creamy.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme, parsley, and a touch of nutmeg.
- Egg: For the egg wash, ensuring a golden finish.
What I love about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have in the fridge. For example, you can swap the turkey for chicken or change up the herbs to suit your taste.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey And Ham Pie
Making the pie is surprisingly simple. Here’s the step-by-step guide to recreate this comforting dish:
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Prepare The Filling
- Start by chopping the onions, carrots, and celery into small pieces.
- Sauté them in a pan with a little olive oil until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in your turkey and ham, breaking them into bite-sized pieces. Add the herbs and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Pour in the chicken stock and let everything simmer until the stock reduces slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a creamy, thick consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
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Assemble The Pie
- Roll out the shortcrust pastry to line your pie dish. Press it gently to fit the shape.
- Spoon the turkey and ham mixture into the crust. Be generous-make sure it’s packed with filling.
- Roll out the second sheet of pastry to cover the pie, sealing the edges. Crimp the edges to secure it.
- Use a sharp knife to create a couple of slits in the top for steam to escape.
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Finish And Bake
- Brush the top with a beaten egg for that golden, glossy finish.
- Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 40-45 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy.
The first time I made this, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to get such a rich, comforting dish. And the smell while it bakes? Unreal.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Every ingredient in this pie has a job to do. Let’s break down the science behind some of the key ones:
- Pastry: The butter in the pastry is crucial. It creates layers as it melts during baking, making the crust flaky. The cold butter and cold water keep the dough firm, allowing for a crisp texture.
- Turkey and Ham: Both are rich in protein. The ham adds a salty, savory depth to the filling, while the turkey provides a milder flavor. When combined with the creamy sauce, they form a balanced filling with contrasting textures.
- Heavy Cream: This thickens the filling, giving it that luxurious mouthfeel. It also helps create a rich, velvety sauce that binds everything together. The fat in the cream coats the proteins, ensuring the pie remains moist and tender.
- Herbs and Nutmeg: Herbs like thyme and parsley add freshness and brightness, cutting through the richness of the gravy. Nutmeg is subtle but enhances the depth of flavor, especially when combined with cream.
Understanding how these ingredients interact can elevate the dish. Each one works in harmony to create that satisfying bite.
Expert Tips
- Use cold pastry: Cold pastry is key to a flaky crust. Keep it chilled while preparing the filling and during baking.
- Don’t overcook the filling: When simmering the turkey and ham mixture, don’t let it reduce too much. You want it to remain creamy and not too thick.
- Rest the pie: Let the pie cool for about 10-15 minutes after baking. It helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice.
Recipe Variations
This pie is versatile, and there are plenty of ways to make it your own:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the turkey and ham for roasted vegetables like squash, mushrooms, and spinach for a hearty, vegetarian version.
- Cheesy Twist: Add grated cheese like cheddar or gruyère to the filling for extra richness.
- Spicy Version: Add a bit of chili or cayenne pepper to the gravy to kick up the flavor.
- Different Pastry: Swap shortcrust for puff pastry for a lighter, flakier result.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Turkey and Ham Pie is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to turn leftovers into a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. The balance of flavors, textures, and the ease of preparation make it a go-to dish for holiday meals or any time you want something cozy. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why it’s one of those recipes people keep coming back to.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey And Ham Pie?
You’ll need turkey, ham, puff pastry, butter, flour, milk, mustard, and some herbs like thyme or sage.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey And Ham Pie Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it and store it in the fridge before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
How Do I Know When The Turkey And Ham Pie Is Cooked Through?
The pie is ready when the pastry is golden and crispy, and the filling is bubbling inside.