Apple Pie

A classic pud - great served with custard* or ice cream*.
Before you start, pre-heat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas Mark 6.

ingredients pastry:

• 200g (8oz) JUVELA Gluten-Free Mix
• 1tsp xanthan gum (optional)
• 50g (2oz) hard margarine
• 50g (2oz) lard
• 1 medium egg, beaten
• Cold water to mix

ingredients filling:

• 500g (1lb) cooking apples, peeled, cored and chopped
• 2tbsp water
• 50g (2oz) sugar
• 25g (1oz) sultanas
• 1tsp cinnamon (optional)

Method:

To make the pastry, place the Gluten-free Mix in a bowl, cut the fats into small pieces using a knife and add them to the Mix. (It is important to keep the fats as cold and hard as possible so leave them in the fridge right up until you need to use them).

Using your fingertips, rub the fats into the Mix until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. (It is important not to over-rub the fats - any larger pieces left will be incorporated later when the pastry dough is kneaded).

Lightly stir in the egg and then gradually add sufficient cold water to produce a soft but not sticky dough (you will probably need 2-3tbsp in total). Using your hands, move the mixture around the bowl allowing it to form a dough without actually forcing it together. When the dough starts to clean the bottom of the bowl, sufficient water has been added.

The dough will still be quite crumbly, so this kneading stage is crucial. (This may seem very strange, but gluten-free pastry differs to traditional pastry as it actually benefits from being handled). Lightly dust a surface with Mix and knead the dough 1-2 minutes. The pastry will change in texture, becoming much smoother and more pliable. The pastry is now ready to use.

To make the filling, place the apples in a pan with the water and sugar. Cook for approx. 8 minutes until soft. Stir in the sultanas and cinnamon. Allow to cool.

Divide the pastry in half and roll out one half on a surface lightly dusted with Mix to a sufficient size to cover a 20cm (8inch) pie plate. (When rolling out, use smooth short strokes and keep the pastry moving around the surface but do not turn it over. As the piece gets bigger, use your rolling pin, rather than your hands, to pick it up).

Spoon in the filling. Roll out the second half and use to cover the filling. Press down the edges and trim off excess pastry. Brush the top with milk and sprinkle with caster sugar. Bake in a pre-heated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden. Delicious served hot or cold with cream, custard* or ice cream*.