I’ve always found comfort in the kitchen. There’s something about the smell of a simmering sauce or the feel of dough in your hands that just makes you feel at home. One of my favorite go-to meals, especially when the weather turns chilly, is Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Pie. It’s hearty, comforting, and ridiculously easy to make, especially if you have leftover turkey from a holiday feast or a weekend roast.
I first tried Jamie’s Turkey Pie a few years ago when I had a ton of leftover turkey after a Thanksgiving dinner. It felt like the right time to get creative. I pulled up the recipe, followed it to a T, and was instantly hooked. The combination of savory turkey, rich gravy, and flaky pastry… it’s like a warm hug in a dish.
Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Pie Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Pie is not just another leftover makeover. It’s a full-on transformation of ordinary leftovers into something extraordinary. The pie is rich and indulgent but balanced with a blend of herbs and vegetables that give it freshness and depth.
I love how versatile this dish is. You can make it with turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of both. The best part? It’s one of those recipes where you can throw in a little extra of whatever you have in the fridge. Trust me, it’s foolproof.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Turkey: Leftover turkey works best. About 500g (or a little more depending on how much turkey you have).
- Pastry: Shortcrust or puff pastry. I prefer puff for that crispy, golden finish.
- Onions: Two medium onions, finely chopped.
- Carrots: Two carrots, peeled and chopped.
- Celery: A couple of sticks of celery, diced.
- Garlic: Two cloves of garlic, minced.
- Chicken stock: 400ml, to create the rich gravy.
- Double cream: For extra richness-about 100ml.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley work wonders.
- Frozen peas: About 100g, adding a pop of color and sweetness.
- Butter: For sautéing the vegetables-around 50g.
- Flour: 2 tablespoons to thicken the gravy.
- Egg: For glazing the pastry to make it golden and shiny.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Pie
Making Jamie’s Turkey Pie is a straightforward process, and I remember the first time I made it, I was surprised at how simple it was, especially considering the final result.
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Prep The Veggies
- Start by chopping your onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. The key here is to chop everything relatively small so it all cooks evenly.
- You’ll want to sauté these in butter over medium heat until soft and golden. It takes about 10 minutes.
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Make The Gravy
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir it in to make a roux. This helps thicken the sauce.
- Slowly pour in the chicken stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the cream and bring it all to a simmer.
- Stir in the herbs, frozen peas, and turkey. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes. You’ll notice how the sauce thickens up and coats everything beautifully.
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Assemble The Pie
- Roll out your pastry. Line a pie dish with it, making sure the edges overhang slightly. Pour in the turkey mixture, and then roll out the top pastry and place it over the filling.
- Seal the edges, then score the top with a knife to let steam escape. Brush the top with a beaten egg for that golden finish.
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Bake
- Pop the pie in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy. The smell will drive you crazy in the best way.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
What makes this pie so delicious isn’t just the combination of ingredients but the science behind them. Take the butter and flour: when combined, they create a roux, which acts as a thickening agent. This is crucial for giving the pie’s gravy that creamy, luxurious texture.
Then there’s the chicken stock. It’s the backbone of the gravy, packed with umami that complements the turkey. When you add double cream, you’re creating a rich, smooth texture that balances out the savory flavors of the turkey and herbs.
Pastry science is also worth noting. The fat in the pastry (whether butter or lard) creates a flaky, light texture when it hits the hot oven, turning golden and crispy. The steam trapped inside the layers is what gives it that puffed, airy structure.
Expert Tips
- Use leftover turkey, but don’t limit yourself: You can use chicken or even duck if that’s what you have.
- Pastry tips: If you’re using store-bought pastry, make sure it’s chilled before rolling out. This ensures it stays crisp while baking.
- Gravy texture: If you prefer a thicker gravy, let the pie sit for 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This will help the filling firm up.
- Flavor boost: Add a little splash of white wine or sherry to the gravy for extra depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of Worcestershire sauce gives a great umami kick.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is:
- Vegetarian: Swap out the turkey for mushrooms, lentils, or roasted vegetables for a veggie-packed pie.
- Herb substitutions: Try rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Cheese: Add some grated cheese into the filling for extra richness. Gruyère or cheddar works beautifully.
- Spicy twist: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a fun, spicy kick to the gravy.
Final Words
This turkey pie is one of those meals that’ll make everyone gather around the table. It’s simple yet comforting, with a great balance of textures and flavors. The flaky pastry contrasts perfectly with the rich, savory filling, and it’s something I’ll never get tired of making.
If you’re looking for a dish that’ll satisfy both your taste buds and your hunger, Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Pie should be at the top of your list. It’s the kind of recipe that can turn leftovers into something spectacular, and honestly, it’s so good, it’s worth making from scratch even without leftovers.
FAQs
Can I Use Chicken Instead Of Turkey For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Pie?
Yes, chicken is a great substitute if you prefer or don’t have turkey available.
How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Pie Take To Cook?
The pie typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour to bake, depending on your oven.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Pie Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving.