Vegetarian Pot Pie Recipe

This vegetarian pot pie is a comforting dish packed with a creamy filling and encased in a flaky crust. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 layers of pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups carrots, diced
• 1 ½ cups potatoes (Yukon or russet), diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw)
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other non-dairy milk)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Pie Crust:

• If using homemade crust, prepare it according to your recipe. Chill for at least 30 minutes before using.

Cook the Vegetables:

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until onions are translucent (about 2 minutes).
• Add carrots, potatoes, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
• Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook for another minute.

Make the Sauce:

• Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for about 2 minutes.
• Gradually whisk in vegetable broth and almond milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 5–10 minutes).
• Add frozen peas and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.

Assemble the Pot Pie:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Roll out one layer of pie crust into a greased pie dish. Pour the vegetable filling into the crust.
• Roll out the second layer of crust and cover the filling. Seal edges by crimping with a fork and cut slits in the top for steam to escape.

Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 30–45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. If edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

Serve:

• Allow cooling for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Flakiest Pie Crust

1. Use Very Cold Butter or Fat: Ensure that the butter or fat is well-chilled before using it. Cold fat helps create a flaky texture by preventing it from fully blending into the flour, which allows for steam pockets during baking.
2. Retain Some Chunks: When mixing the fat into the flour, leave some larger pieces of fat intact. These chunks will melt during baking, creating steam and contributing to flakiness.
3. Limit the Water: Use the minimum amount of water necessary to hold the dough together. Too much water can develop gluten, making the crust tough instead of tender.
4. Chill the Dough: After mixing, shape the dough into a disk and chill it for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This helps maintain the cold temperature of the fat.
5. Roll and Turn: Roll out the dough on a floured surface, turning it frequently to prevent sticking. This ensures even thickness and helps maintain a uniform shape.
6. Bake on a Hot Surface: Place your pie directly on a preheated baking sheet to ensure a crispy bottom crust.

Using Frozen Vegetables in the Filling

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in your pot pie filling. They are convenient and can save time in preparation. Just be sure to add them directly to the filling without thawing to avoid excess moisture.

Making the Pot Pie More Spicy

To add spice to your pot pie, consider these options:

• Add Spices: Incorporate spices like cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or chili powder into the filling.
• Use Hot Sauce: Mix in your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Spicy Mustard or Horseradish: A small amount can add depth and heat.

Good Side Dishes to Serve with Vegetarian Pot Pie

1. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and herbs.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the pot pie nicely.
4. Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Lightly steamed vegetables add color and nutrition.

Using Store-Bought Pie Crust

Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe. It saves time and effort while still delivering a delicious result. Just ensure it’s thawed if frozen before using it in your pot pie!