I remember the first time I made Jamie Oliver’s Turkey and Ham Pie. It was around the holidays, and I had leftover turkey from a big family dinner. I was looking for something hearty and comforting, but I didn’t want to just reheat the same meal. That’s when I stumbled upon this gem of a recipe. The combination of tender turkey, savory ham, and a buttery, golden pastry was a game-changer. It felt like I was treating myself, even though it was a leftover dish. The flavor was rich, the textures were perfect, and every bite was like a cozy hug. Ever since then, I’ve made it a regular in my kitchen. Whether it’s after a big meal or just because I’m craving something hearty, Jamie’s recipe never disappoints.
Jamie Oliver’s Turkey And Ham Pie Recipe
The recipe is simple but delivers big on flavor. It brings together leftover turkey and ham, making it a great way to repurpose those holiday leftovers. But even if you don’t have leftovers, it’s worth making from scratch.
Why I Love It
- Comfort food at its finest: The creamy filling paired with the flaky, buttery pastry is the ultimate comfort meal.
- Easy to make: Even though it looks impressive, this pie is surprisingly simple.
- Great for leftovers: It’s a perfect way to use up turkey and ham without repeating the same meal.
Ingredients Needed
I’ve tried making this pie a few times, and it’s always worked out perfectly. The beauty of this recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are. Here’s what you need:
- Leftover turkey (or cooked chicken if you don’t have turkey)
- Ham (use whatever type of ham you prefer; I like a smoky one for extra flavor)
- Butter (for richness and the base of the sauce)
- Flour (for thickening the sauce)
- Milk (helps create a creamy texture)
- Chicken stock (adds flavor and depth)
- Mustard (for a subtle zing)
- Thyme (fresh is best for that herby flavor)
- Frozen peas (adds a pop of color and freshness)
- Lemon zest (for a bit of brightness)
- Pastry (I prefer puff pastry, but shortcrust works too)
- Egg (to brush on the pastry for that golden finish)
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey And Ham Pie
I have made this pie enough times to know the process by heart. It’s a fun recipe to make, especially when you have a little time to enjoy the steps. Here’s how you can do it:
- Preheat the oven: Jamie suggests setting it at 200°C (around 400°F). It needs to be nice and hot to get that golden crust.
- Cook the base: Melt butter in a large pan. Once it’s melted, stir in flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux. Add the chicken stock and milk slowly while stirring to create a smooth sauce. Stir in mustard, thyme, and a bit of lemon zest for some freshness.
- Add the turkey, ham, and peas: Chop up your leftover turkey and ham into bite-sized pieces and throw them into the pan. Stir to coat them in that creamy sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to heat everything through.
- Assemble the pie: Roll out your pastry on a floured surface. Use a pie dish that’s deep enough to hold the filling. Add the turkey and ham mixture into the dish, then cover with the pastry. Don’t forget to trim any excess pastry and make a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
- Bake the pie: Brush the pastry with a beaten egg to get that beautiful golden color. Pop the pie in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the pastry is golden and puffed up.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
I love thinking about what each ingredient does in a dish, and with this pie, there are a few key players that really make the difference:
- Butter: The fat in the butter not only adds richness but also helps create a smooth base for the sauce. It coats the flour, turning it into a roux that thickens the sauce without any lumps.
- Flour: This is the thickening agent for the sauce. When you combine it with the butter, it creates a solid base to hold all those creamy liquids together.
- Milk and Chicken Stock: Together, they provide that perfect balance of creaminess and flavor. The stock adds savory depth while the milk gives it a smooth texture.
- Pastry: The puff pastry rises during baking, creating flaky layers. Its slight crispiness contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy filling.
Expert Tips
After making this pie a few times, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it even better:
- Use leftover roast turkey: If possible, use turkey that’s already been roasted. The flavor from the roast adds a richer taste than plain turkey breast.
- Don’t overwork the pastry: Handle the pastry gently to avoid it becoming tough. Only roll it out as much as needed to cover the pie dish.
- Add a splash of white wine: If you have some on hand, a splash of white wine in the sauce adds an extra layer of flavor. Just let it simmer for a minute to burn off the alcohol.
- Be generous with seasoning: Turkey can be a bit bland on its own, so don’t be shy with the herbs, salt, and pepper.
Recipe Variations
This pie is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to switch it up:
- Swap the meat: If you don’t have turkey or ham, try chicken or even leftover roast beef. Each will bring its own unique flavor.
- Add vegetables: Carrots, leeks, or mushrooms can make great additions to the filling. They add both flavor and texture.
- Go creamy: For an extra rich filling, you can stir in some double cream or crème fraîche. It’ll make the sauce even silkier.
- Vegan version: You can swap out the turkey and ham for mushrooms and tofu, and use dairy-free butter and cream for a plant-based option.
Final Words
This turkey and ham pie has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s comforting, easy to make, and always impresses guests. Whether you’re using leftovers or making it from scratch, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. The combination of rich, creamy filling with the flaky, golden crust is a culinary match made in heaven. If you haven’t made it yet, give it a try-you might just find it as addictive as I have.
FAQs
Can I Use Leftover Turkey For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey And Ham Pie?
Yes, leftover turkey works great for this recipe. Just shred it and add it to the filling.
What Type Of Pastry Is Best For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey And Ham Pie?
You can use shortcrust pastry for the base and puff pastry for the top. This gives a nice contrast in textures.
How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Turkey And Ham Pie Need To Bake?
The pie should bake for about 30-40 minutes at 200°C (400°F), or until the pastry is golden and crispy.