Pie is a quintessential dessert that comes in various flavors and styles – from fruity to creamy and everything in between. But have you ever wondered why some pies have beans in their crust? Yes, you read it right – beans in pie crust! This may come as a surprise to those who are new to the world of baking pies, but it’s a common practice that serves both practical and historical purposes.
Beans in pie crust, also known as blind baking, are used to keep the crust in shape while it bakes, ensuring that it doesn’t puff up and lose its shape. It’s a technique that has been around for centuries and was popularized during the renaissance period, where rich individuals would showcase their wealth by baking elaborate pies with intricate designs and patterns. Nowadays, beans are a quick and easy solution for those who want to achieve the desired shape and crispiness for their pie crust. But is that the only reason why we use beans in pie crust? Let’s explore further.
The History of Bean-Infused Pie Crusts
The use of beans in pie crusts dates back to medieval times. Back then, pie crusts were often filled with meat and were meant to be consumed on the go. Bakers used beans to weigh down the crusts during blind baking to prevent them from shrinking or puffing up. This helped to create a sturdy crust that could hold the fillings without becoming soggy or falling apart.
Over time, sweet pies became popular and the use of beans in pie crusts continued. This method of blind baking was especially useful when it came to custard-filled pies, as the beans helped to prevent the custard from overflowing and creating a mess in the oven. Today, while there are other methods of blind baking, the use of beans in pie crusts remains a popular method due to its effectiveness and ease of use. In addition to providing a stable and flaky crust, bean-infused pie crusts can also add a subtle nutty flavor to the finished dessert.
The Benefits of Using Beans in Pie Crusts
Beans have been used in pie crusts for centuries, and there are several reasons for this practice. One of the main benefits of using beans in pie crusts is that they serve as a weight to keep the crust from puffing up during baking. When making a pie with a traditional crust, especially a custard or fruit pie, the bottom crust can often become soggy because it is not able to crisp up properly. By using beans as a weight, the crust will come out perfectly crispy and hold its shape.
Another benefit of using beans in pie crusts is that they can be used over and over again. Instead of using costly pie weights or rice, which can only be used once, beans can be placed in a parchment-lined crust and then stored and used again and again. Not only does this save money, but it also ensures that the pie crust comes out consistently perfect every time. Additionally, beans can be cooked beforehand and then used as a nutritious and protein-packed ingredient in soups, stews, and other dishes.
Bean Varieties That Make the Best Pie Crusts
Beans are used in pie crusts to prevent the crust from puffing up or shrinking while it bakes. But not all beans work the same way. Some beans are better suited for this purpose than others, and choosing the right variety can make a big difference in the quality of your crust.
One of the most popular types of beans for pie crusts is the kidney bean. Kidney beans are large and heavy, which means they can hold down the dough and prevent it from puffing up. Other good options include black beans, chickpeas, and white beans. These varieties are also heavy and dense, making them ideal for using as pie weights. With the right bean variety, you can ensure that your pie crust stays flat and even, resulting in a perfect pie every time.
Creative Ways to Use Bean-Infused Pie Crusts
Are you tired of using plain old pie crusts for your desserts? Why not switch things up with bean-infused pie crusts? These crusts not only add a unique flavor to your dessert but also offer a healthier option. Here are some creative ways to use bean-infused pie crusts.
Firstly, try making a chocolate tart with a black bean crust. Simply puree black beans with cocoa powder, flour, and sweetener to form a dough. Press the dough into a tart tin and bake for 10-12 minutes before filling it with your favorite chocolate ganache.
Secondly, you can make a savory quiche with a lentil crust. Mix cooked lentils with almond flour, eggs, and herbs to form a quiche crust. Fill it with vegetables, cheese, and eggs for a delicious and protein-packed brunch dish. These are just a few ideas to get you started. With some experimentation, you can create endless delicious variations!
The Science Behind Using Beans in Pie Crusts
The science behind using beans in pie crusts is relatively simple. When baking a pie crust, the crust must be pre-baked before adding in the filling. This process is known as blind baking. However, because the crust has no filling, it may puff up and lose its shape, leading to a less visually appealing final product. To prevent this, bakers often use a process called pie weighting, and beans are a popular choice for this method.
Pie weighting involves filling the empty pie crust with a material that will hold it down and prevent it from puffing up in the oven. Typically, this involves lining the crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil and then filling it with a material like beans, rice, or a specially designed pie weight. The weight from these materials prevents the crust from rising in the oven, and the beans in particular help to distribute the heat evenly throughout the crust, resulting in a more even bake and better texture. Overall, using beans as a pie weight is a simple yet effective way to ensure a perfectly baked pie crust every time.
How to Make Bean-Infused Pie Crusts at Home
Making a bean-infused pie crust at home is a simple and easy process. All you need is a cup of dry beans and your favorite pie crust recipe. It’s important to note that the type of beans you use will affect the flavor and texture of your pie crust.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Rinse the beans and spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast the beans for 10-15 minutes until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Allow the beans to cool before adding them to your pie crust recipe. Simply grind the roasted beans in a food processor until they become a fine powder. Add the bean powder to your pie crust recipe along with the other ingredients. Mix until everything is well combined and proceed with making your pie crust as usual. The result will be a delicious and unique pie crust with a slightly nutty flavor and a sturdy texture.
Delicious Recipes Using Bean-Infused Pie Crusts
Incorporating beans into your pie crust may sound a bit unusual at first, but it’s definitely worth trying. By adding beans to your pie crust, you’ll up its nutritional profile without compromising on taste. As an added bonus, the beans will give your crust a unique, slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with both sweet and savory fillings.
There are several delicious recipes that feature bean-infused pie crusts. For a sweet option, try making a chocolate pudding pie with a black bean crust. The beans in the crust will give the pie an added boost of fiber and protein while maintaining a rich chocolate flavor. Alternatively, for a savory twist, use a white bean crust as a base for your quiche. This crust will give the dish a heartier, more substantial texture, making it the perfect choice for brunch or dinner. With so many options to choose from, bean-infused pie crusts are a great way to elevate your baking game and add a bit of excitement to your favorite recipes.
Wrapping Up
Beans have been used in pie crusts for centuries to weigh down the dough and prevent it from puffing up during baking. This time-tested method has remained popular because it is a simple and effective way to achieve a crisp, evenly baked crust.
While many bakers today opt for alternative methods, such as using pie weights or docking the dough with a fork, beans remain a reliable and affordable option. So, the next time you bake a pie crust, consider giving this traditional technique a try and enjoy a perfectly baked crust with a delicious filling.