I give up. I’ve been waiting for a good winter rainstorm to bring you this potato cheddar onion pie. However, as the winter warms the calendar is against me. I have to admit spring has sprung. We were promised a long, rainy winter in Los Angeles, so I made plans. I bought firewood and new woolly socks. In preparation for El Niño we installed a French drain in the courtyard. We live in the hills and wanted to be ready for whatever washed down the hill. Most importantly I planned this deliciously savory pie. It’s adapted from a traditional British Cheese and Onion Pie – made modern for my not-so rainy Los Angeles lifestyle.
The British love a savory pie. But of course, they say “savoury”. Some of the most cherished pies in my repertoire find their inspiration in these traditional savouries. Quite a few (not surprisingly) get their comfort from potatoes, whether baked inside or mashed and rosti topped. There’s power in those pies. Here’s an example of a favorite English countryside pie full of big flavor; starting with the cheese. English Farmhouse Cheddar Onion Pie.
Cheddar is an English cheese that has been imitated the world over. Great examples can now be found in many different countries. But if you can, I suggest you honor this pie and its roots by choosing an authentic English Cheddar. Many are still made by traditional methods on the farm. GREG
You pushed the rain away by being ready for it. Is it best if I enjoy this savoury pie in the theatre?
I’m a firm believer in cozy, warm comfort foods all year long. I too have given up on any storms coming our way. No need to wait for a dish like this! 🙂
That pie looks delicious. If it’s spring in LA, just tell your readers that this one goes out to all those who spring left behind, those of us who are lucky to see a crocus popping up here and there.
Ever notice that the British can’t spell? 😀 Of course they think the same of us. Plus we pronounce words funny. Anyway, love a good savory pie. And it’s definitely spring here — after an extremely mild winter. Not complaining — love the change of seasons. Good pie — thanks.
Greg, we had about 2 weeks of “winter” weather here and I was so disappointed. I had gotten all of my fuzzy sweaters out of their storage bags in anticipation of lots of cold days and I never got to use them! I do hope California gets the rain that it needs soon. And this savory pie looks delicious and I’ll have to give it try soon, but while wearing shorts! 🙂
I feel bad for you that you didn’t get the rainy winter you had hoped for, considering the drought you guys had last summer but more importantly, for the reason of this tasty pie! Such simple ingredients brought together in precise measures to result in a sophisticated luncheon or light supper dish. I can see this dish altogether different with some other full bodied cheeses, such as blue or gorgonzola, WOW! This would also make excellent little mini tart hors d’œuvres for a fancy party!
Have a great time in Florida, I’ll look forward some tasty seafood recipes like the last time you were there!
Be still my heart — this is how I love to eat, so warm and cozy, I can picture myself in the corner booth of the pub…and we really did get cheated out of a fabulously wet winter…I’m already dreaming of next year, the heat drives me nuts 🙂
It’s drizzling here in Santa Cruz and it’s not a bad day to make this pie. Happy traveling
Traditional Cheese and Onion Pie is my favourite! I’ll have to try this variation 🙂
You’re telling me?! Arizona skipped winter all together and Spring lasted exactly 2 weeks, it’s officially the first day of summer here and almost in the triple digits! Boo! Good news? The AC is cranked so this onion pie sounds fantastical!!!
Greg — I also feel cheated out of my winter comfort foods. The same promise of El Niño in Tucson was a hollow promise. I am bitter. However, in the summer, when the AC is blasting (and it will blast here), I will be heating up the oven for this pie. Hope all is going well in your travels!
Hey! Im in Phoenix so I’m feelin ya! 🙂