Tomato and Cheddar Pie

Introduction

Tomato and Cheddar Pie offers a delightful fusion of hearty tomatoes, rich cheddar cheese, and flaky pastry crust. This classic recipe brings together the warmth of summer tomatoes with the comforting creaminess of sharp cheddar to create an unforgettable dessert-like treat.

Tips for this Recipe

• Use ripe, locally sourced tomatoes for maximum flavor and sweetness.
• Chill the dough before rolling out to ensure a flaky texture in your crust.
• Be sure to preheat your baking sheet with a silicone bake mat to achieve even cooking of both the crust and filling.

Why you will love this recipe

The Tomato and Cheddar Pie is not only a treat for your taste buds but also an homage to simple, farm-to-table ingredients. Its creamy filling, complemented by the robust flavors of tomatoes and cheddar cheese, makes it an appealing dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients

1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
3. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
4. 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
5. 6 tablespoons chilled unsalted butter, cut into 1/2″ cubes
6. 1 cup buttermilk
7. 2 pounds large ripe tomatoes, cored and sliced
8. 2 1/2 cups grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese
9. 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
10. 1 scallion, chopped
11. 1/2 cup mayonnaise
12. 2 tablespoons fresh dill
13. 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
14. 2 teaspoons sugar
15. 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
16. 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
17. 1 1/2 tablespoons cornmeal

Adviced Equipment

• Baking Sheet: A flat metal pan essential for baking the pie.
• Silicone Bake Mat: Helps in preventing dough from sticking and ensures an easy release.
• 9-Inch Pie Dish: An appropriate size to create a well-shaped crust for even filling distribution.
• Chef’s Knife: Used for slicing and dicing ingredients accurately.
• Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for food preparation tasks.
• Mandoline Slicer: For uniformly thin tomato slices.
• Piping Bag with Star Tip: Allows for decorative filling placement on the crust if desired.
• Digital Kitchen Scale: Ensures precise measurement of ingredients, especially critical in baking.
• Oven Thermometer: Confirms that your oven maintains the correct temperature for even baking.
• Mixing Bowls Set: Vital for mixing dough and combining various recipe components efficiently.

History of the Recipe

The Tomato and Cheddar Pie has a storied history, drawing from European baking traditions and the rich culinary culture of America. It embodies the fusion of two staple ingredients that became prominent in American cuisine during the 19th century: tomatoes and cheddar cheese.

Fun Facts about This Recipe

• Cheddar cheese, originally from England, has been a staple in American cooking since the 18th century when it was first brought to America by English settlers.
• Tomatoes were initially thought to be poisonous in Europe and weren’t widely used until after they were introduced to North America. They have now become a central ingredient in many dishes, including this iconic pie.
• Pies as a dessert option are not native to the American culinary landscape but have been adopted from European influences and became popular during the 19th century.