Tourtière is a classic French-Canadian meat pie enjoyed during the holiday season, especially on Christmas and New Year's Eve. With its rich, savory filling and perfectly flaky crust, this dish is a beloved comfort food steeped in tradition. Whether you're looking to explore Canadian cuisine or impress your guests with a hearty, homemade pie, this Tourtière recipe will delight your taste buds and bring festive warmth to your table.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

1 lb (450 g) ground pork

1 lb (450 g) ground beef

1 cup (240 ml) beef or chicken broth

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium potato, peeled and grated

1 tsp (5 g) ground cinnamon

1 tsp (5 g) ground cloves

1/2 tsp (2.5 g) allspice

1/2 tsp (2.5 g) ground nutmeg

1/2 tsp (2.5 g) black pepper

1 tsp (5 g) salt

For the Crust:

2 1/2 cups (310 g) all-purpose flour

1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

1/2 tsp (2.5 g) salt

1/4 cup (60 ml) ice water

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, cook the ground pork and beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the broth, grated potato, and spices. Simmer for 20 minutes until thickened. Let cool.

Make the Crust: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out one disc of dough and place it into a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish. Trim excess edges. Fill the crust with the meat mixture. Roll out the second disc and place it over the filling. Seal and crimp the edges. Cut slits in the top for ventilation.

Bake the Tourtière: Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving: Serve your Tourtière warm with a side of tangy cranberry sauce or a fresh green salad. Pair with a robust red wine or hot apple cider for a festive treat.

Tourtière is more than just a meat pie it's a slice of Canadian heritage that brings families together around the table. Its rich flavors and flaky crust make it a must-try for anyone seeking hearty, comforting dishes with a story to tell.