Downton fans will be be thrilled to see four Downton actors in the new Netflix release of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.
Potato peel pie was just one creation made out of necessity when food was rationed during World War II. Guernsey, was occupied by the Germans so food was even more scarce. Most farm animals were confiscated from the farmers relied on the crops they grew, like potatoes.
The original dish was not particularly pleasing to the palate, so I have made some adjustments, but still using ingredients that the fortunate could get their hands on. The crust and topping is quite crunchy which is a nice contrast to the soft potato filling.
Pleasing Potato Peel Pie
Downton fans get to see Downton actors in the new Netflix release of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society.
The original potato peel pie recipe from the book lists only peels, mashed potatoes and beet root). My version has a delicous soft potato filling offset by nice crunchy crust and topping.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 large onion grated
- 1 large potato (thin skinned) grated
- 1 medium beet grated
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 large egg whites
- 3 tbsp. unbleached all purpose flour
For the filling
- 6 medium potatoes thin skinned
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cream
- 2 strips bacon diced and cooked
- 2 tbsp. chives finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cheese shredded
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Grease a pie plate with bacon grease hidden away in your pantry.
- Preheat your oven to 350 F.
- Mix the ingredients for the crust in a large bowl and then spoon into the prepared pie plate, Reserve 1/2 a cup for the finish. Press against the bottom and sides so you have an even crust.
- Bake in the oven for one hour, or until the crust is firm and crispy. Let cool.
Make the Filling
- Srub the potatoes well. Cut into 3 inch cubes with the peel on, add water to cover, Add the garlic clove to the water and set on medium heat. Cook until fork tender.
- Drain the water. Heat the milk and add to the hot potatoes. Mash well, Stir in cream, bacon and chives.
- Spoon the filling into the prepared crust. Use the remaining crust ingredients to make a lattice design and fill with the gaps with the cheese.
- Bake in the 350 F oven for 30 minutes
- Cool slightly and cut into slices and serve.
Notes
For the romantics in the crowd, you may try making heart shaped mini pies. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
