Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie Recipe

The Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie is a classic British dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Known for their hearty, no-fuss recipes, the Hairy Bikers bring out the best of simple ingredients in this pie, combining a rich cheese filling with sweet, caramelized onions. Encased in a buttery shortcrust pastry, this pie is ideal as a main dish or as part of a larger spread for a family dinner or special gathering.

What is Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie?

The Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie is a savory pie made with a buttery shortcrust pastry filled with a mixture of caramelized onions and tangy cheese. Baked to golden perfection, the pie is crispy on the outside and gooey and cheesy on the inside. It’s a comforting, indulgent dish that’s perfect for vegetarians or anyone who loves cheese.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food: This is a classic, comforting pie that’s perfect for cold nights or family gatherings.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A filling and satisfying vegetarian dish that’s packed with flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry ingredients, it’s easy to whip up.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the type of cheese or add extra ingredients to suit your taste.
• Deliciously Savory: The combination of buttery pastry, sweet onions, and sharp cheese makes this pie irresistible.

Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie

For the Pastry:

• Plain Flour (300g): The base of the shortcrust pastry.
• Butter (150g, chilled and cubed): Adds richness and helps create a flaky texture.
• Cold Water (3-4 tablespoons): To bring the dough together.
• Salt (a pinch): To season the pastry.

For the Filling:

• Onions (3 large, finely sliced): Adds sweetness and flavor to the filling.
• Cheddar Cheese (300g, grated): A mature cheddar gives a rich and sharp flavor.
• Double Cream (100ml): For a creamy, smooth filling.
• Eggs (2 large): To bind the filling together.
• Butter (25g): For cooking the onions.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
• Egg Yolk (1, for glazing): To give the pie a golden finish.

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl: For making the pastry.
• Rolling Pin: To roll out the pastry.
• Pie Dish (23cm): For assembling and baking the pie.
• Frying Pan: For sautéing the onions.
• Whisk: For mixing the eggs and cream.
• Baking Beans: For blind baking the pastry.

Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie

Follow these simple steps to make Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie :

Step 1: Make the Shortcrust Pastry

• In a large mixing bowl, rub the chilled butter into the flour and salt until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
• Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
• Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

• In a frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the finely sliced onions and cook slowly for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside to cool.

Step 3: Roll Out the Pastry

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
• Divide the chilled pastry into two equal portions. Roll out one half of the pastry on a floured surface until it’s large enough to line a 23cm pie dish.
• Line the pie dish with the pastry, trimming off any excess, and prick the base with a fork.
• Chill the lined pie dish for 10 minutes, then blind bake the pastry by lining it with baking paper and filling it with baking beans. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove the beans and paper and bake for another 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 4: Make the Filling

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and double cream until smooth.
• Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and the cooled caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

• Pour the cheese and onion mixture into the prepared pastry case, spreading it evenly.
• Roll out the second half of the pastry to make the pie’s top crust. Dampen the edges of the pastry base with a little water and place the top crust over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal.
• Brush the top of the pie with egg yolk for a golden glaze.

Step 6: Bake the Cheese and Onion Pie

• Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
• Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 7: Serve the Pie

• Slice and serve the pie warm with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

What Goes Well With Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie

• Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the pie.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, broccoli, or zucchini make a great side.
• Steamed Greens: Spinach, green beans, or peas add color and nutrition to the meal.
• Garlic Bread: A perfect side for soaking up any extra cheesy filling.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the pie beautifully.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie

• Caramelize the Onions Slowly: Take your time to cook the onions over low heat to bring out their sweetness.
• Chill the Pastry: Ensure the pastry is chilled before rolling it out to prevent shrinkage during baking.
• Use Mature Cheddar: A strong, mature cheddar gives the filling a deeper, richer flavor.
• Golden Finish: Brush the top of the pie with egg yolk to create a glossy, golden finish.
• Let It Rest: Allow the pie to rest for 10 minutes after baking to let the filling set, making it easier to slice.

Easy Variations of Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie

• Add Leeks: Swap out some of the onions for leeks to add a slightly different flavor.
• Different Cheeses: Mix in Gruyère or Red Leicester for extra depth of flavor.
• Herb Twist: Add fresh thyme or parsley to the filling for an herby flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or mustard powder to the filling for a little heat.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan cheese, plant-based butter, and an egg substitute for a plant-based version.

Best Practices to Store Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie

• Refrigerate: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat slices in the oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Freeze: You can freeze the pie after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Best Practices to Reheat Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie

• Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 180°C and reheat the pie for 10-15 minutes until it’s warmed through. This helps keep the pastry crisp.
• Microwave Option: For a quicker option, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on medium power. The pastry may lose some crispness, so oven reheating is preferred.
• Avoid Overheating: Reheat gently to avoid drying out the filling or overcooking the pastry.

How Can I Make Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie Healthier?

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute some of the plain flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce Cheese: Use a smaller amount of cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety to make the pie lighter.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in additional vegetables like spinach, leeks, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Use Low-Fat Cream: Replace the double cream with single cream or a lighter alternative to reduce calories.
• Smaller Portions: Serve smaller slices alongside a big green salad for a more balanced meal.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg

FAQs

Can you freeze Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie?

Yes, you can freeze Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie. Allow the pie to cool completely after baking, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 180°C until fully heated through.

How do you prevent the bottom of the cheese and onion pie from getting soggy?

To prevent the bottom of the pie from getting soggy, blind bake the pastry. Line the pie base with baking paper and fill it with baking beans or rice, then bake for 10-12 minutes. This ensures the base is cooked through before adding the filling.

What cheese works best for Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie?

A mature cheddar cheese works best for this pie, as it adds a rich, sharp flavor that complements the sweetness of the onions. You can also mix in cheeses like Gruyère or Red Leicester for added depth and creaminess.

Can I make Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie in advance?

Yes, you can make the pie in advance. Assemble the pie, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake it in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it in the oven when ready to serve.

Final Words

The Hairy Bikers Cheese and Onion Pie is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its buttery, flaky pastry and deliciously cheesy, caramelized onion filling, this pie is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether served as a main course or alongside other dishes, it’s a classic recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.

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