Vegan Australian Curry Pie: A Plant-Powered Twist On A Classic

Australia's rich culinary heritage is a melting pot of flavors from around the world. Among its diverse offerings is the Australian Curry Pie, a delightful fusion of traditional Australian comfort food and the aromatic spices of curry.

Today, we'll guide you through the steps to create a Vegan Australian Curry Pie that captures the essence of this beloved dish without the use of animal products, making it a delectable and compassionate addition to your plant-based menu.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

- 1 lb (450g) plant-based ground meat (e.g., textured vegetable protein or plant-based crumbles)

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons curry powder

- 1 cup diced potatoes

- 1 cup diced carrots

- 1 cup frozen peas

- 1 cup vegetable broth

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Olive oil for cooking

For the Pastry:

- Vegan puff pastry sheets (enough for a pie top and bottom)

- 1 tablespoon plant-based milk (for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

- Add the plant-based ground meat and cook until lightly browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula.

- Sprinkle the curry powder over the plant-based meat and stir to combine, allowing the spices to toast slightly.

- Add the diced potatoes and carrots, continuing to cook for a few minutes.

- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the tomato paste. Stir well.

- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

- Add the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

- Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Remove it from the heat and let it cool.

2. Assemble the Pie:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

- Roll out one sheet of vegan puff pastry and use it to line a pie dish.

- Spoon the cooled vegan curry filling into the pastry-lined dish.

- Roll out the second sheet of vegan puff pastry and use it to cover the pie, sealing the edges.

- Brush the top of the pie with plant-based milk to achieve a golden, glossy finish.

- Make a few small slits in the pastry using a sharp knife to allow steam to escape while baking.

3. Bake and Serve:

- Place the vegan pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.

- Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

The Vegan Australian Curry Pie is a celebration of flavors that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation. By using plant-based ingredients, you can savor the warmth of this beloved Aussie classic while also supporting a more compassionate and sustainable food choice. Whether enjoyed on a picnic or shared with family and friends, this vegan twist on the Australian Curry Pie is bound to win hearts and taste buds alike. So, embark on a culinary adventure and create your own plant-powered masterpiece today.