A Taste of Southern Comfort
Picture this: a warm summer evening, the scent of ripe tomatoes filling the air, and a slice of savory, cheesy goodness on your plate. We’re talking about tomato pie, a Southern staple that embodies the essence of comfort food. And when it comes to Southern cooking, few names are as iconic as Paula Deen. Her recipes are known for their bold flavors, generous portions, and that unmistakable touch of Southern charm. Today, we’re diving into the world of tomato pie, inspired by the queen of Southern cuisine herself. Get ready to experience a taste of tradition with a recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite. This tomato pie recipe Paula Deen inspired, will have your guest asking for more!
Tomato pie is said to have originated in the South, where tomatoes have long been a staple of the diet. While the exact origins of tomato pie are unknown, it’s thought that the dish was created as a way to use up an abundance of fresh tomatoes in the summer months.
Unveiling the Magic of Tomato Pie
So, what exactly is tomato pie? Simply put, it’s a savory pie with a filling primarily made of ripe tomatoes, cheese, and herbs, all baked in a flaky crust. The flavor profile is a delightful dance between the tangy sweetness of the tomatoes, the richness of the cheese, and the fragrant herbs. It’s a dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer, when tomatoes are at their peak ripeness and bursting with flavor. While there are many variations, the core ingredients remain the same, making it a versatile and adaptable dish for any palate.
Paula Deen: A Southern Cooking Icon
Paula Deen has earned her place as a beloved figure in the world of Southern cooking. Her recipes are known for their simplicity, their focus on flavor, and their ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort. From her famous mac and cheese to her crispy fried chicken, Paula Deen’s dishes have become synonymous with Southern hospitality. It’s no wonder that so many home cooks turn to her recipes for inspiration. The reason her tomato pie recipe Paula Deen inspired is so popular, is because of the reliability and trust of the Southern chef herself.
Creating Your Own Tomato Pie: A Paula Deen Inspired Recipe
Here’s a recipe inspired by Paula Deen’s style, bringing together classic Southern flavors in a simple yet satisfying dish. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and create a tomato pie that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 (9-inch) pie crust, pre-baked
- For the Filling:
- 4-5 medium ripe tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the tomatoes: Slice the tomatoes and lay them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to drain excess moisture. This step is crucial to prevent a soggy pie.
- Sauté the onion: In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion in a little olive oil or butter until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine the filling ingredients: In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, basil, parsley, and sautéed onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the pie: Arrange a layer of tomato slices in the pre-baked pie crust. Spread a layer of the cheese mixture over the tomatoes. Repeat the layers until all the tomatoes and cheese mixture are used up.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the pie: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool slightly: Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips for Tomato Pie Success
Want to take your tomato pie to the next level? Here are a few tips to ensure a perfect pie every time:
- Choose ripe tomatoes: The flavor of your tomato pie will depend heavily on the quality of your tomatoes. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes that are bursting with flavor. Heirloom varieties are particularly delicious.
- Drain the tomatoes: As mentioned earlier, draining the tomatoes is essential to prevent a soggy crust. Don’t skip this step!
- Experiment with cheeses: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for tomato pie, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a touch of goat cheese.
- Add some herbs: Fresh basil and parsley are traditional additions to tomato pie, but you can also try adding other herbs like thyme, oregano, or chives.
- Spice it up: For a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Don’t overbake: Overbaking the pie can dry out the tomatoes and make the crust too hard. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving and Enjoying Your Tomato Pie
Tomato pie is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It’s perfect for a summer lunch, a potluck gathering, or as a side dish for dinner. Serve it warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. Pair it with a simple salad, grilled chicken, or a side of coleslaw for a complete and satisfying meal. Serve this tomato pie recipe Paula Deen inspired, for any occasion.
Variations to Spice Things Up
Ready to get creative with your tomato pie? Here are a few variations to try:
- Add bacon or prosciutto: Cooked bacon or prosciutto adds a smoky, salty flavor that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- Incorporate onions or garlic: Sautéed onions or garlic add depth and complexity to the filling.
- Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Go vegetarian: Explore using different types of vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers, for a vegetarian twist.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Tomato Pie
If you happen to have any leftover tomato pie (which is unlikely!), store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To reheat, you can warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave it in short intervals until heated through. Reheating in the oven will help to maintain the crust’s crispness.
A Slice of Southern Happiness
Tomato pie is more than just a dish; it’s a symbol of Southern hospitality, summertime gatherings, and the simple pleasures of life. With this recipe inspired by Paula Deen, you can bring a taste of the South into your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of tomato pie. This tomato pie recipe Paula Deen inspired, will become a favorite in your household! Let us know if you have ever tried tomato pie! What is your favorite thing about tomato pie?
