Recipe For Flaky Pie Crust Made With Lard
Introduction
Pie crust is the foundation of any great pie. A flaky, buttery crust can take a pie from good to amazing. While there are many recipes out there, one that stands out is a crust made with lard. Lard, which is rendered pork fat, adds a rich flavor and creates a flaky texture that you can't get with other fats.
Ingredients
To make a flaky pie crust with lard, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 cup cold lard
- 1/4-1/2 cup ice water
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar until well combined.
Step 2: Cut in the Lard
Add the cold lard to the bowl and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingertips. The mixture should look like coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Add the Water
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of ice water over the mixture and stir with a fork until the dough starts to come together. If it's still dry, add more water a tablespoon at a time until it forms a ball.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Divide the dough in half and form each half into a disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Tips for Success
To make sure your pie crust comes out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use cold lard, cold water, and keep the dough as cold as possible while you're working with it.
- Don't overwork the dough. Mix it until it just comes together, then stop.
- Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to the size you need, then transfer it to the pie dish.
- Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork before baking to prevent it from puffing up.
Conclusion
A flaky pie crust made with lard is a delicious and classic choice for pies of all kinds. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful handling, you can create a crust that will make your pie stand out from the rest. Try this recipe for your next pie and taste the difference for yourself!