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Indonesian Layered Pie

Serves 4 to 6 Pastry vegetarian, Breads & Pastry

Indonesian Layered Pie

Indonesian Layered Pie is a beloved staple on home tables across Indonesia, where it is crafted with care and shared among family and friends. This dish, with its roots deeply embedded in domestic kitchens, is characterized by its generous use of salt and fat, creating a satisfying and indulgent experience. It is a true reflection of the Indonesian home cook's intuitive approach, relying more on the senses than precise measurements.

The pie's layers, made from delicate pastry sheets and rich cheese, meld together with the buttery embrace, offering a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Fresh herbs accentuate its savory profile, making each bite a flavorful journey. This version captures the essence of home cooking, inviting you to partake in a cherished culinary tradition that celebrates both simplicity and indulgence.

Ingredients

  • 10pastry sheets
  • 200 gcheese
  • 100 gbutter
  • herbs — chopped

Method

  1. Begin by taking 100 g of butter out of the refrigerator to soften at room temperature. This will ensure it blends smoothly with the other ingredients later. Grate 200 g of cheese and set aside, allowing it to come to room temperature as well, which will help it melt evenly during baking.
  2. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven is warming, prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with some of the softened butter. This will prevent the pastry from sticking and help achieve a golden crust.
  3. Lay one pastry sheet in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Brush it with a thin layer of softened butter, ensuring the entire surface is covered. Sprinkle a small portion of the grated cheese and a pinch of herbs over the buttered pastry. Repeat this process with the remaining pastry sheets, layering them evenly and pressing gently to remove any air pockets.
  4. Once all layers are assembled, pour any remaining butter over the top layer to ensure it crisps up nicely. The top should glisten with butter, which will help achieve a rich, golden-brown finish.
  5. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. The pie is ready when the top layer is a deep golden brown and the cheese has melted completely, creating a bubbling effect around the edges.
  6. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve without collapsing.
  7. Finish by sprinkling a few more herbs on top for a fresh aroma. Serve the pie warm, allowing the flavors and textures to be fully appreciated.
Cover of Authentic Indonesian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Indonesian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Indonesian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Indonesian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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