Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and potatoes)
- 1 cup chickpeas (cooked or canned)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon parsley (for garnish)
- 1 package (2 sheets) refrigerated pie crusts
Instructions:
1. Preparation of the Vegetables:
- Begin by preparing the vegetables. If you’re using fresh peas and carrots, chop them into bite-sized pieces. Dice the potatoes into small cubes for easy cooking. If you’re using frozen vegetables, allow them to thaw before use. Rinse the chickpeas thoroughly and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Pie Crusts:
- Unroll the pie crusts and fit one of them into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish. Ensure it’s smooth and covers the bottom and sides evenly. Set the second crust aside for the top.
3. Make the Filling:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and sauté until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the vegetable broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once the mixture thickens, pour in the heavy cream and continue to stir. Add salt, pepper, and thyme for flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken into a creamy sauce.
4. Combine the Vegetables and Filling:
- Add the prepared vegetables (carrots, peas, potatoes) and chickpeas to the sauce. Stir everything together, ensuring that the vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
5. Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour the vegetable filling into the prepared pie crust, smoothing it out to cover the bottom evenly.
- Place the second pie crust on top, pressing down the edges and crimping them to seal the pie. Use a knife to cut a few slits in the top of the crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Optional: Brush the top crust with a little bit of melted butter or milk for a golden, shiny finish.
6. Bake the Pie:
- Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on the pie during the last few minutes to prevent the crust from overbaking. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
Once your vegetable pot pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the filling set, ensuring that each slice holds its shape. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and flavor. Serve the pot pie alongside a simple green salad or enjoy it on its own as a fulfilling meal. Its creamy, savory filling and golden crust make it the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy a warm and satisfying meal with this delicious homemade vegetable pot pie. It’s a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!