Amish Tomato Pie: A Savory Summer Delight
Amish Tomato Pie, a delightful and unexpected twist on traditional pies, offers a burst of summer flavors in every bite. Unlike sweet fruit pies, this savory creation features ripe, juicy tomatoes as its star ingredient, complemented by a creamy, cheesy filling and a flaky, golden crust. It’s a perfect dish for showcasing garden-fresh tomatoes or enjoying the vibrant flavors of summer year-round.
This blog post will guide you through crafting the perfect Amish Tomato Pie, from selecting the best tomatoes to mastering the art of the flaky crust. We’ll delve into the history of this unique dish, explore variations and substitutions, and provide all the tips and tricks you need to create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends.
## What is Amish Tomato Pie?
Amish Tomato Pie is a savory pie originating from the Amish community, known for their simple yet flavorful cuisine. It typically consists of a flaky pie crust filled with layers of sliced tomatoes, a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, cheese (often cheddar or mozzarella), and seasonings. The pie is then baked until golden brown and bubbly, creating a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack.
The beauty of Amish Tomato Pie lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal ingredients and is relatively easy to prepare, making it an ideal recipe for both novice and experienced cooks. The combination of sweet, juicy tomatoes, tangy mayonnaise, sharp cheese, and flaky crust creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is both comforting and surprisingly refreshing.
## The History of Amish Tomato Pie
The exact origins of Amish Tomato Pie are shrouded in a bit of mystery, as many traditional Amish recipes are passed down through generations without written records. However, it’s believed that the pie emerged as a way to utilize the abundance of tomatoes available during the summer months. The Amish, known for their resourcefulness and self-sufficiency, have always valued simple, wholesome ingredients and techniques.
Tomatoes, originally from South America, were introduced to Europe in the 16th century but were initially met with skepticism and even fear. They were often considered poisonous and primarily used for ornamental purposes. It wasn’t until the 18th and 19th centuries that tomatoes gained widespread acceptance as a culinary ingredient.
As tomatoes became more popular, they found their way into various dishes, including pies. The Amish community, with their emphasis on utilizing local produce, embraced the tomato and developed their own unique version of the tomato pie, incorporating their signature ingredients like mayonnaise and cheese.
Amish Tomato Pie remains a beloved dish in Amish communities and has gained popularity beyond, thanks to its delicious flavor and ease of preparation. It’s a testament to the Amish tradition of creating flavorful and satisfying meals from simple, readily available ingredients.
## Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Simple and Easy:** This recipe requires minimal ingredients and is straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a fuss-free meal.
* **Flavorful and Delicious:** The combination of sweet tomatoes, tangy mayonnaise, sharp cheese, and flaky crust creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **Versatile and Adaptable:** You can easily customize this recipe to your liking by adding different cheeses, herbs, or spices. It’s also a great way to use up leftover tomatoes from your garden.
* **Showcases Summer Produce:** This pie is a perfect way to celebrate the abundance of summer tomatoes and enjoy their fresh, vibrant flavor.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** Amish Tomato Pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.
## Key Ingredients
* **Tomatoes:** Ripe, juicy tomatoes are the star of this pie. Use a variety of tomatoes for a more complex flavor profile, such as Roma, heirloom, or beefsteak tomatoes. Make sure to slice them about 1/4 inch thick.
* **Pie Crust:** You can use a store-bought pie crust or make your own from scratch. For the best flavor and texture, we recommend using a homemade pie crust made with butter or shortening.
* **Mayonnaise:** Mayonnaise adds a creamy tanginess to the filling. Use a full-fat mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture. Some recipes might suggest Miracle Whip, but for a more authentic and balanced flavor, traditional mayonnaise is recommended.
* **Cheese:** Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for Amish Tomato Pie, but you can also use mozzarella, Gruyere, or a combination of cheeses. Shred the cheese for easy melting.
* **Onion:** A thinly sliced onion adds a subtle savory note to the filling. You can use white, yellow, or red onion, depending on your preference.
* **Fresh Basil:** Fresh basil adds a touch of herbaceousness and complements the tomatoes perfectly. Chop the basil finely before adding it to the filling.
* **Salt and Pepper:** Salt and pepper enhance the flavors of all the ingredients and balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.
* **Sugar:** A pinch of sugar can help to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, especially if they are not perfectly ripe. It’s optional but recommended.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **9-inch Pie Plate:** A standard 9-inch pie plate is perfect for this recipe.
* **Mixing Bowls:** You’ll need a couple of mixing bowls for preparing the filling and crust (if making from scratch).
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **Knife and Cutting Board:** For slicing the tomatoes and onion.
* **Cheese Grater:** For grating the cheese.
* **Rolling Pin (if making homemade crust):** For rolling out the pie dough.
* **Baking Sheet:** For catching any drips from the pie while baking.
## Amish Tomato Pie Recipe
This recipe provides detailed steps and instructions for creating a delicious and authentic Amish Tomato Pie.
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 45-50 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour 5 minutes
**Servings:** 6-8
### Ingredients
* 1 (9-inch) pie crust, pre-made or homemade
* 4-5 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced about 1/4 inch thick
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat)
* 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella)
* 1/4 cup thinly sliced onion
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
### Instructions
**1. Prepare the Pie Crust:**
* If using a store-bought pie crust, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly.
* If making a homemade pie crust, prepare it according to your favorite recipe. Roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie plate.
* Carefully transfer the pie crust to the pie plate and crimp the edges.
* Pre-bake the crust: Poke holes in the bottom of the crust with a fork (this prevents it from puffing up during baking). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment paper and weights and bake for another 5-7 minutes until lightly golden.
**2. Prepare the Tomato Filling:**
* In a medium bowl, gently toss the sliced tomatoes with salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). This will help to draw out some of the excess moisture from the tomatoes.
* Let the tomatoes sit for about 10-15 minutes, then drain off any excess liquid.
* In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, shredded cheese, sliced onion, and chopped fresh basil. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
**3. Assemble the Pie:**
* Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture on the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust.
* Arrange a layer of tomato slices over the cheese mixture, overlapping them slightly.
* Spread another layer of the cheese mixture over the tomatoes.
* Repeat the layers of tomatoes and cheese mixture until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese mixture on top.
**4. Bake the Pie:**
* Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
* Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and heated through.
* If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
**5. Cool and Serve:**
* Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly and prevent it from being too runny.
* Serve the Amish Tomato Pie warm or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
## Tips for the Best Amish Tomato Pie
* **Use Ripe Tomatoes:** The key to a delicious Amish Tomato Pie is using ripe, juicy tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that are firm, plump, and have a vibrant color. Avoid using tomatoes that are bruised or overripe.
* **Drain Excess Moisture:** Tomatoes can release a lot of moisture during baking, which can make the pie soggy. To prevent this, gently toss the sliced tomatoes with salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess liquid. Then, drain the liquid before adding the tomatoes to the pie.
* **Pre-bake the Crust:** Pre-baking the pie crust helps to prevent it from becoming soggy and ensures that it is cooked through. Line the crust with parchment paper and pie weights or dried beans to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking the pie can result in a dry and crumbly crust. Bake the pie until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and heated through. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
* **Let it Cool:** Allow the pie to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly and prevent it from being too runny.
* **Homemade Crust Matters:** While store-bought crusts work in a pinch, a homemade pie crust makes a world of difference. The flavor and flakiness are far superior.
## Variations and Substitutions
* **Cheese Variations:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Gruyere, provolone, or pepper jack. You can also use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
* **Herb Variations:** Try adding other herbs to the filling, such as oregano, thyme, or parsley. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* **Vegetable Additions:** Add other vegetables to the filling, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the pie.
* **Meat Additions:** For a heartier pie, add cooked bacon, sausage, or ham to the filling.
* **Gluten-Free Option:** Use a gluten-free pie crust for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
* **Vegan Option:** Use a vegan pie crust, vegan mayonnaise, and vegan cheese for a vegan version of this recipe. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.
* **Different Tomato Types:** Use different types of tomatoes for varying flavors. Heirloom tomatoes will add a unique and rich taste.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a spicy kick.
## Serving Suggestions
Amish Tomato Pie is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways.
* **As a Main Course:** Serve a slice of Amish Tomato Pie with a side salad for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
* **As a Side Dish:** Serve Amish Tomato Pie as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
* **As an Appetizer:** Cut the pie into smaller squares and serve it as an appetizer at a party or gathering.
* **For Brunch:** Amish Tomato Pie is a delicious addition to any brunch spread.
## Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover Amish Tomato Pie in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
* **Reheat:** Reheat Amish Tomato Pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the crust may become soggy.
* **Freezing:** While freezing is not highly recommended due to the mayonnaise-based filling, you can freeze Amish Tomato Pie for up to 2 months. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 350-450 per serving
* Fat: 25-35 grams
* Saturated Fat: 15-20 grams
* Cholesterol: 75-100 mg
* Sodium: 400-600 mg
* Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams
* Fiber: 2-3 grams
* Sugar: 5-7 grams
* Protein: 10-15 grams
*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.*
## Conclusion
Amish Tomato Pie is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for showcasing summer tomatoes. With its creamy, cheesy filling and flaky crust, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will impress your family and friends. So, grab some ripe tomatoes, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a savory masterpiece that will transport you to the heart of Amish country.
Enjoy this simple yet flavorful pie, and let the taste of summer linger with every bite! Happy baking!