Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie with Flaky Cheese Pastry
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both hearty and flavorful, Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie with Flaky Cheese Pastry is the perfect choice. This recipe combines tender ham hock, sweet honey, and a hint of mustard, all wrapped in a flaky cheese pastry. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare and ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its warm, inviting flavors, this pie is sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 25 grams
Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Fat: 25 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie with Flaky Cheese Pastry
This delicious pie is not only satisfying but also a great way to use up leftover ham hock. It packs a nutritious punch, providing protein and essential nutrients while offering a balanced meal in a single dish. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to tweak it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for families or entertaining guests.
How to Make Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie with Flaky Cheese Pastry Step by Step
Ingredients
Ham hock: 1 (about 1.5 pounds), slow-cooked and shredded
Honey: 2 tablespoons
Mustard: 3 tablespoons (wholegrain or Dijon)
Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated (cheddar or Gruyère)
Pastry dough: 2 sheets of puff pastry
Egg: 1, beaten
Carrot: 1, finely chopped
Onion: 1, finely chopped
Chicken broth: 1 cup
Thyme: 1 teaspoon, fresh or dried
Salt and pepper: To taste
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, cover the ham hock with water and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shredded. Remove the ham hock from the pot, discard the bones, and shred the meat. In a pan, sauté the onion and carrot in a bit of oil until softened. Add the shredded ham, honey, mustard, thyme, and chicken broth. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Roll out one sheet of puff pastry and fit it into a pie dish. Pour the ham and mustard filling into the pastry shell. Roll out the second sheet of pastry and place it over the filling. Pinch the edges to seal, then cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape. Brush the top of the pastry with a beaten egg to give it a golden finish. Bake the pie for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
How to Serve Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie with Flaky Cheese Pastry
This Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie pairs beautifully with roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts and carrots for a hearty meal. A light side salad with a zesty dressing can also balance the richness of the pie. For a comforting touch, serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a warm bread roll.
How to Store Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie with Flaky Cheese Pastry
Store any leftover Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm it in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen for 45-55 minutes, adding extra time if needed.
Expert Tips for Cooking Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie with Flaky Cheese Pastry
- Ensure your ham hock is fully cooked and tender for the best flavors in your pie.
- Feel free to mix different cheeses for a unique taste; a combination of cheddar and Gruyère works wonderfully.
- Make sure to cut slits in the top pastry to allow steam to escape, ensuring a crispy crust.
- Let the pie rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a few herbs to the filling.
Delicious Variations of Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie with Flaky Cheese Pastry
For a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling. You could also try a citrus twist by incorporating some fresh orange zest into the mixture. For a vegetarian option, swap the ham hock for sautéed mushrooms and chestnuts, packed with flavor and hearty enough to be a satisfying alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions about Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie with Flaky Cheese Pastry
What is the best way to ensure my pastry is flaky? Use cold butter in the pastry and handle it minimally to keep it flaky.
Can I make the filling ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the pie.
What else can I serve with the pie? Consider pairing it with a tangy coleslaw or a simple green vegetable for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie with Flaky Cheese Pastry is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with a comforting vibe. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and experience the warmth and deliciousness for yourself!
Honey & Mustard Ham Hock Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, cover the ham hock with water and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shredded.
- Remove the ham hock from the pot, discard the bones, and shred the meat.
- In a pan, sauté the onion and carrot in a bit of oil until softened.
- Add the shredded ham, honey, mustard, thyme, and chicken broth. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roll out one sheet of puff pastry and fit it into a pie dish.
- Pour the ham and mustard filling into the pastry shell.
- Roll out the second sheet of pastry and place it over the filling.
- Pinch the edges to seal, then cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
- Brush the top of the pastry with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake the pie for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
- Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing.
