Delia Smith’s Turkey And Ham Pie Recipe

Delia Smith’s Turkey and Ham Pie is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for the winter months or as a festive meal following a holiday feast. This pie combines succulent pieces of turkey and flavorful ham with a creamy sauce, all encased in a rich, golden, buttery pastry. It is a dish that makes use of leftover holiday meats, providing a great way to repurpose turkey and ham into a satisfying meal.

The beauty of this pie lies in its ability to transform humble leftovers into something luxurious, yet simple. The mix of tender turkey and salty ham is paired with a creamy sauce made from a mixture of stock, cream, and herbs, making every bite a perfect balance of savory flavors. This pie can be enjoyed at a family dinner, a cozy gathering, or as part of a festive meal.

Delia Smith’s Turkey And Ham Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Delia Smith’s Turkey and Ham Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Filling

• Leftover turkey (about 300g, shredded or cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Leftover ham (about 300g, diced)
• Butter (2 tablespoons)
• Flour (2 tablespoons)
• Chicken or turkey stock (300ml)
• Double cream (100ml)
• Mustard (1 teaspoon, optional for a slight tang)
• Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Frozen peas (100g, optional)
• Grated nutmeg (a pinch for seasoning)
• Bay leaf (1, optional for extra flavor)

For The Pastry

• Shortcrust pastry (enough to line the base and top of your pie, roughly 375g or about two-thirds of a 500g pack of pastry)
• Egg yolk (1, for glazing the top)

Equipment Needed

To prepare the turkey and ham pie, you will need the following kitchen equipment:

• Pie dish (a 23cm round pie dish is ideal)
• Rolling pin (to roll out the pastry)
• Saucepan (for preparing the filling)
• Large mixing bowl (to combine the ingredients)
• Sharp knife (to chop the turkey, ham, and parsley)
• Pastry brush (for applying egg wash)
• Fork (for crimping the edges of the pie)
• Oven (to bake the pie)

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Delia Smith’s Turkey And Ham Pie

Follow these steps to create a comforting and delicious Turkey and Ham Pie:

1. Prepare The Filling

   • Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook it for about 1 minute to form a roux (a thickening agent for your sauce).
   • Gradually add the chicken or turkey stock while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer and cook until it thickens.
   • Stir in the double cream and add the mustard (if using), followed by a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
   • Add the turkey and ham to the mixture, followed by the peas (if using). Mix everything together, then remove from the heat. Stir in the chopped parsley. Allow the filling to cool while you prepare the pastry.

2. Prepare The Pastry

   • Roll out two-thirds of the shortcrust pastry on a lightly floured surface until it is large enough to line your pie dish. Carefully place the rolled pastry into the dish, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess.
   • Spoon the cooled filling into the pastry-lined pie dish, spreading it out evenly.

3. Top The Pie

   • Roll out the remaining pastry and use it to cover the top of the pie. Seal the edges by pressing down with a fork, making sure to crimp the sides tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
   • Cut a small cross or a few slits in the top of the pie to allow steam to escape while it bakes.

4. Egg Wash

   • Brush the top of the pie with the egg yolk to give it a golden, glossy finish when baked.

5. Bake The Pie

   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), or 180°C (350°F) for fan ovens. Bake the pie for 30-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp. Keep an eye on it toward the end to ensure it doesn’t overbake.

6. Serve

   • Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Make ahead: This pie can be made in advance and frozen before baking. Simply assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw for a few hours and bake as instructed. This makes it a great dish for meal prepping or preparing for a busy day.
• Flavor adjustments: You can experiment with herbs and seasonings to tailor the pie to your taste. Fresh thyme or rosemary could be added to the sauce for a more fragrant flavor. A touch of grated cheese (like cheddar) in the filling will add extra richness.
• Pastry shortcuts: If you don’t want to make your own pastry, you can use store-bought shortcrust pastry to save time. However, homemade pastry will offer a buttery, flaky texture that elevates the dish.
• Leftover meats: This recipe is excellent for using up any leftover turkey and ham from holiday meals. You can also try mixing in other leftover cooked meats like chicken or even roast beef for a different twist.

Delia Smith’s Turkey and Ham Pie is the ultimate comfort food, transforming leftover meats into a rich, creamy, and savory dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or holiday meals. The combination of tender turkey, savory ham, and the buttery, flaky pastry makes for a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s versatile and can be customized to your preferences, whether you add extra vegetables or tweak the seasoning.

Whether you make it for a holiday feast or a family dinner, this pie is a great way to celebrate the joy of home cooking while making the most of your leftovers.

Simple Twists On Delia Smith’s Turkey And Ham Pie Recipe

Delia Smith’s classic Turkey and Ham Pie is a comforting dish, perfect for using up leftovers from a holiday feast. The recipe itself is already rich and flavorful, but there are several ways you can add your own twist to elevate or personalize it. Whether you’re looking to add a bit of zing or enhance the textures, here are a few ideas to get creative with this savory pie:

1. Adding Herbs And Spices

A simple way to elevate the flavor of your Turkey and Ham Pie is to experiment with different herbs and spices. While Delia’s recipe typically uses thyme and parsley, you can introduce rosemary for a piney, earthy depth or sage to bring a robust, savory quality that complements turkey. If you want a touch of heat, a pinch of ground mustard or cayenne pepper can create a surprising but pleasant kick.

2. Incorporating Vegetables

For a richer, heartier filling, consider adding more vegetables to the pie. Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and turnips add natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

A handful of peas or corn could add texture and color. You could also sauté some leeks or onions with a touch of garlic for a sweet and aromatic base.

3. Experimenting With The Pastry

Delia’s recipe typically calls for a standard shortcrust pastry. However, a puff pastry topping can bring a delightful flakiness and an extra layer of lightness to the dish. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something a bit more decadent, a cheddar or Parmesan-infused pastry will add a sharp contrast to the savory filling, making each bite more indulgent.

4. Cheese And Cream Variations

For a more indulgent pie, try mixing a handful of grated cheese into the filling. Cheddar works wonderfully with turkey, or you could opt for a creamier cheese like brie or mascarpone for a richer filling. If you enjoy a creamy pie, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or even a dollop of sour cream to the sauce before baking to make it extra luscious.

5. The Addition Of Cranberries Or Chutney

If you’re serving this dish around the holidays, why not add a festive touch?

Stir in a handful of fresh or dried cranberries for a tart contrast to the rich turkey and ham. Alternatively, spooning in a tablespoon of cranberry sauce or chutney can bring an interesting balance of sweet and savory flavors, which pairs well with the savory profile of the pie.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Leftovers are one of the best parts of making a big pie like Delia Smith’s Turkey and Ham Pie, but storing them properly is essential to ensuring they stay fresh and safe to eat.

1. Refrigeration

After you’ve enjoyed your pie, let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge. Leftover pie should be wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container.

Stored this way, the pie will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to refrigerate the pie within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.

2. Freezing Leftovers

If you have more pie than you can eat within a few days, freezing is an excellent option. To freeze your pie, wrap it securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Properly wrapped, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow the pie to thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven until it’s piping hot.

3. Reheating The Pie

To reheat leftover pie, you can place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the filling is heated through. For faster reheating, you can microwave individual slices, but the pastry may lose some of its crispness.

4. Avoiding Leftover Waste

If you don’t think you’ll eat the pie within a few days, consider portioning it out into smaller slices before freezing, which makes it easy to defrost just the amount you need.

What To Eat With Delia Smith’s Turkey And Ham Pie?

While Delia’s Turkey and Ham Pie is hearty on its own, pairing it with some complementary sides can make the meal even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside:

1. Green Salad

A fresh, crisp green salad is the perfect contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the pie. Go for a mix of peppery arugula, spinach, or watercress, and toss with a light vinaigrette.

Add some sliced apples, walnuts, or cranberries for extra sweetness and texture. This bright, refreshing side helps balance the richness of the pie.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or parsnips, bring a caramelized sweetness that complements the savory filling of the pie. You can also try adding root vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash, which work beautifully with the turkey and ham.

3. Mashed Potatoes

For a truly indulgent meal, you can’t go wrong with mashed potatoes. The creaminess of mashed potatoes makes an excellent side, and they can be made with butter, cream, and herbs to match the flavors of the pie. If you want to switch it up, try mashed cauliflower or parsnips for a lower-carb alternative that still provides a similar creamy texture.

4. Cranberry Sauce Or Chutney

A small bowl of cranberry sauce or chutney on the side will add a sweet-tart contrast that enhances the flavors of the turkey and ham pie. The sweetness of the sauce pairs well with the savory filling, bringing extra depth to each bite.

5. Gravy

If you love extra sauce, consider making a light turkey gravy to serve alongside. The gravy will add an extra layer of moisture to the pie and amplify the savory flavors of the turkey and ham.

Conclusion

Delia Smith’s Turkey and Ham Pie is a classic, comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and textures, making it a favorite for many. By adding simple twists such as fresh herbs, extra vegetables, or a more indulgent pastry, you can make it your own and experiment with different variations.

Don’t forget to store leftovers properly, whether you’re keeping them in the fridge for a few days or freezing them for later. With the right sides, such as a crisp salad or mashed potatoes, you can create a well-rounded meal that feels just as satisfying on day two as it did on the first.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Delia Smith’s Turkey And Ham Pie?

To make Delia Smith’s turkey and ham pie, you will need the following ingredients: cooked turkey (about 500g), cooked ham (about 250g), puff pastry (enough to line a pie dish and top it), a medium onion, butter, flour, chicken stock, double cream, Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, salt, pepper, and egg wash for glazing. These ingredients come together to create a savory filling wrapped in a golden, flaky pastry.

How Do I Prepare The Filling For Delia Smith’s Turkey And Ham Pie?

To prepare the filling for the turkey and ham pie, start by finely chopping the onion and gently cooking it in butter until soft and translucent. Then, add the flour to form a roux, followed by the chicken stock and double cream to create a creamy sauce.

Stir in Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Once the sauce is thickened, fold in the chopped turkey and ham, ensuring everything is well-coated and heated through. Let the filling cool slightly before assembling the pie.

Can I Make Delia Smith’s Turkey And Ham Pie Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make Delia Smith’s turkey and ham pie ahead of time. The filling can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

When ready to assemble the pie, simply roll out the pastry, fill it with the cooled turkey and ham mixture, and bake as directed. You can also fully assemble the pie and freeze it for up to a month. Just be sure to bake it from frozen, extending the cooking time slightly.