Hairy Bikers’ Turkey And Ham Pie Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Turkey and Ham Pie is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender turkey, savory ham, and a rich, creamy sauce all encased in a golden, flaky pie crust. The pie is a wonderful way to use up leftovers, especially from festive meals like Christmas or Thanksgiving, when you might have extra turkey and ham in the fridge.

The Hairy Bikers, known for their approachable and flavorful recipes, have created a recipe that combines these classic ingredients into a warming, satisfying pie that’s perfect for a family meal. It’s an indulgent dish that highlights the richness of turkey and ham, all complemented by the creaminess of a well-seasoned sauce and the buttery texture of the pastry.

Hairy Bikers’ Turkey And Ham Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make the Hairy Bikers’ Turkey and Ham Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Pastry

   • 500g (about 2 ½ cups) shortcrust pastry (you can either buy pre-made pastry or make it from scratch)
   • 1 egg (for glazing)

2. Filling

   • 500g (about 1 lb) cooked turkey, chopped into chunks
   • 200g (about 7 oz) cooked ham, diced
   • 1 onion, finely chopped
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 2 tablespoons butter
   • 2 tablespoons plain flour (all-purpose flour)
   • 500ml (2 cups) chicken stock
   • 150ml (about ½ cup) double cream (heavy cream)
   • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, but adds depth)
   • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a sprig of fresh thyme)
   • Salt and pepper to taste

3. Additional

   • Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
   • Extra flour for dusting the surface when rolling the pastry

Equipment Needed

Here are the basic pieces of equipment you’ll need to make this delicious pie:

• Pie dish or baking tin (approximately 23cm/9 inches in diameter)
• Rolling pin (for rolling out the pastry)
• Sharp knife (for chopping the turkey, ham, and vegetables)
• Frying pan or skillet (for sautéing the onions and garlic)
• Saucepan (for making the creamy sauce)
• Pastry brush (for egg glazing the pastry)
• Large spoon (for mixing and stirring)
• Baking tray (to place the pie on while baking, for better heat distribution)

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Turkey And Ham Pie

Step 1: Prepare The Pastry

1. Roll out the shortcrust pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s large enough to fit your pie dish. You should aim for a thickness of about 3-4mm.
2. Carefully transfer the pastry into the pie dish, pressing it into the base and sides, and trim any excess pastry around the edges. If you’ve made your own pastry, be sure it’s chilled before rolling to avoid any shrinkage when baking.
3. Chill the pastry in the fridge for 20 minutes before filling to help it keep its shape when baking.

Step 2: Cook The Filling

1. In a frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to make a roux (a mixture of fat and flour). This will help thicken the sauce.
3. Gradually add the chicken stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once the stock is fully incorporated, add the cream and mustard (if using), then bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in the thyme, and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
5. Add the turkey and ham to the sauce, stirring until well combined. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat the meat through and allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Assemble The Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Pour the turkey and ham filling into the prepared pastry-lined pie dish.
3. Roll out the remaining pastry and place it over the top of the pie, sealing the edges by pressing the top and bottom pastry together. You can use a fork to crimp the edges or pinch them together with your fingers.
4. Use a sharp knife to make a few small slits in the top of the pie to allow steam to escape during baking.
5. Brush the top of the pie with a beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.

Step 4: Bake The Pie

1. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy, and the filling is bubbling.
2. Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

1. Use Homemade Pastry: While store-bought pastry is a convenient option, nothing beats the richness of homemade shortcrust pastry. Make your own with flour, butter, and cold water for a more flaky and buttery crust.
2. Leftover Meat: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey and ham after a big meal like Christmas or Thanksgiving. You can also use other types of meat, such as chicken or pork, for a variation.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake the pie just before serving for a fresh, hot meal.
4. Vary the Vegetables: While the classic filling uses onions and garlic, feel free to experiment with adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor and color.
5. Freezing: If you have leftovers, this pie freezes beautifully. Simply allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 40-45 minutes until heated through.

Hairy Bikers’ Turkey and Ham Pie is a warming, flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. It’s a brilliant way to make use of leftover meats, and its creamy, hearty filling combined with the crisp pastry makes it a satisfying meal.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. With easy-to-follow steps, simple ingredients, and the added bonus of versatility, it’s a must-try for any home cook. Enjoy the pie warm from the oven with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced and hearty meal.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Turkey And Ham Pie Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Turkey and Ham Pie is already a crowd-pleaser with its comforting flavors and hearty fillings. But sometimes, adding a personal twist to a beloved recipe can elevate it even further. Here are some simple ideas to give this dish a bit of flair:

1. Use a Different Pastry: While traditional puff pastry works wonders, why not try a shortcrust pastry for a more robust base? The crumbly texture of shortcrust offers a satisfying contrast to the tender filling, and it’s particularly great if you prefer a thicker, biscuit-like crust.
2. Add Some Vegetables: Incorporating vegetables can bring both flavor and color to the pie. You can add peas, carrots, or even sautéed mushrooms. These additions not only make the dish even more wholesome but also lend it a beautiful pop of color. You could even consider mixing in a few baby potatoes, either diced or left whole for a rustic touch.
3. Seasoning Variations: While the recipe calls for basic seasonings, you can easily introduce a bit of boldness with herbs or spices. For example, a pinch of smoked paprika would bring a gentle smokiness, while some fresh thyme or rosemary can add earthiness. A touch of mustard powder or a spoonful of Dijon mustard can also provide a nice tangy contrast to the rich, creamy filling.
4. Cheese It Up: If you love cheese, try adding a layer of grated cheese (cheddar or even blue cheese) on top of the filling before sealing the pie. As the pie bakes, the cheese will melt into the filling, creating a glorious, gooey center that will delight cheese lovers.
5. Make It a Family-Sized Pie or Individual Portions: While a large, family-sized pie is perfect for gatherings, individual mini pies can be a great way to serve smaller portions for an intimate dinner or as a fun way to present the dish at a party. Simply adjust the baking time to ensure the smaller pies are cooked through.

These variations add a bit of creativity to an already stellar recipe, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to suit your taste.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers from a hearty dish like Turkey and Ham Pie requires care to ensure that the meal retains its flavors and texture. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Cool Before Storing: Allow the pie to cool to room temperature before placing it in the fridge. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to sogginess. Aim for a cooling period of about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the pie.
2. Wrap and Seal Properly: If you’re storing a whole pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to ensure that it doesn’t dry out. For individual portions, it’s best to place them in airtight containers. If you don’t have suitable containers, you can also wrap the portions in foil and then place them in a resealable plastic bag.

3. Refrigerate Or Freeze

   • In the Refrigerator: Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to reheat it thoroughly before eating. To maintain the crispiness of the crust, it’s best to reheat the pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
   • Freezing: If you want to store the pie for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat it as you would if it were fresh.
4. Avoid Reheating Multiple Times: For the best flavor and texture, try to reheat the pie only once. Repeated reheating can cause the pastry to become tough and the filling to dry out.

By following these steps, your leftovers can stay fresh and delicious for several days, ensuring that you can enjoy a slice of comfort food at any time.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Turkey And Ham Pie?

When enjoying a dish like Turkey and Ham Pie, it’s always nice to complement it with sides that balance the rich, savory flavors of the pie. Here are some ideas for side dishes that would pair perfectly with this comforting meal:

1. Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with herbs make for a wonderful side. The crispy edges of the roasted vegetables provide a nice contrast to the creamy filling of the pie. A sprinkle of sea salt and fresh thyme would elevate the flavor profile.
2. Simple Green Salad: To add some freshness to the dish, a crisp green salad works wonderfully. Consider a mix of arugula, spinach, and watercress, dressed in a light vinaigrette with a touch of mustard to tie into the flavors of the pie. Adding a few roasted nuts or seeds can give it a crunchy texture that complements the richness of the pie.
3. Mashed Potatoes: If you’re in the mood for something extra indulgent, mashed potatoes are always a classic side dish. For a twist, try adding roasted garlic, butter, and a dash of cream to the mashed potatoes for an extra layer of richness that pairs well with the savory pie filling.
4. Gravy or Cranberry Sauce: While the pie itself is rich and creamy, adding a bit of gravy or tangy cranberry sauce on the side can bring additional layers of flavor. The sweet tartness of cranberry sauce, in particular, provides a lovely contrast to the salty ham and turkey filling.
5. Steamed Green Beans: A healthy, simple side like steamed green beans adds some crunch and color to the meal. You could sauté them with garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor. This simple side helps to cut through the richness of the pie.

These sides not only complement the Turkey and Ham Pie but also offer a nice variety of textures and flavors that make the meal feel well-rounded and satisfying.

Conclusion

Hairy Bikers’ Turkey and Ham Pie is a versatile and comforting dish that can be easily customized to suit personal preferences. Whether you choose to tweak the ingredients with creative twists, store leftovers properly for later enjoyment, or serve the pie alongside complementary sides, there are endless possibilities for enhancing this recipe. The key is to balance flavors, textures, and ingredients to create a meal that feels as comforting as it is delicious.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Required For The Hairy Bikers’ Turkey And Ham Pie Recipe?

The Hairy Bikers’ turkey and ham pie recipe calls for a combination of leftover turkey, ham, and a creamy sauce. Key ingredients include shortcrust pastry, butter, flour, milk, chicken stock, thyme, mustard, and a selection of vegetables such as carrots, leeks, and onions. The dish is typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes a hint of nutmeg, giving it a flavorful and comforting taste.

How Long Does It Take To Cook The Hairy Bikers’ Turkey And Ham Pie?

The total cooking time for the Hairy Bikers’ turkey and ham pie recipe is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes about 40 minutes for preparing the filling and assembling the pie, followed by an additional 40-45 minutes for baking the pie in the oven. The exact timing may vary depending on your oven’s temperature, so it’s important to check the crust for golden-brown perfection before removing it from the oven.

Can I Substitute The Turkey And Ham In The Hairy Bikers’ Pie Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the turkey and ham in the Hairy Bikers’ pie recipe with other meats. For example, you can use leftover roast chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms or plant-based protein for a meat-free version. However, keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile slightly, so you may need to adjust seasonings to complement the new choice of ingredients.