Name: Depression-Era Onion Pie (Standard)
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour; 1 tsp Salt; 2/3 cup Shortening; 6-8 tbsp Cold water; 4 medium Yellow onions-sliced; 1/4 cup Butter; 1 tsp Salt; 1/2 tsp Black pepper; 1/4 cup Water

Recipe tier

A simple, savory pie made with readily available ingredients, reflecting the resourcefulness of the Depression era. This version focuses on affordability and ease of preparation.

Total 1h 15m

Serves 6

Steps 4

Ingredients 9

Crust
2 cups 240 g All-purpose flour
1 tsp 5 mL Salt
cup 155 g Shortening
6-8 tbsp 90-120 mL Cold water
Filling
4 medium 600 g Yellow onions-sliced
cup 60 mL Butter
1 tsp 5 mL Salt
tsp 2.5 mL Black pepper
cup 60 mL Water

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Equipment

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Instructions

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Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, for 30-40 minutes, or until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Season with salt and pepper. Add water and cook for another 5 minutes.
Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Pour the caramelized onion filling into the crust. Cover with a second crust or lattice strips. Cut vents in the top crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.