Gramma Schuler's Pasties (A Montana Pasty Recipe)

Author Notes

My family has deep roots in Northern Michigan and its rich mining tradition. The Pasty was a traditional savory meat pie that was cooked in the morning, wrapped up and placed in a tin, so that lunch would be warm for the miners.The initials that were placed in the pies crust were to tell the difference among the different mens pasties and the thick crust edges were so the miners dirty hands had a place to grab without getting their lunch covered with soot. I have always had it served with ketchup, but in Quebec they serve it covered with brown gravy.The blend of beef and pork with sweetness of the rutabega really make this perfect rich fall dish. This is my kind of comfort food.I often make it in classic pie form with two crusts.Today I made it in traditional form, but I have made them the size of a twinkie as well. The possibilities are endless. It is great to take for a potluck or tailgating. I usually serve a green salad with a tart vinaigrette to compliment this savory meat pie. - MyCommunalTable —MyCommunalTable

Test Kitchen Notes

What a special treat! There are a few pasty recipes floating around but this one is as authentic as you will ever find. I followed Gramma Schuler’s filling to a “T” and tripled the crust ingredients to make four 9-inches round individual pies. The filling doesn’t precook, it is quick and easy to prepare and has the perfect blend of flavors, a flakey crust with a moist meat and vegetable filling. An individual size pasty is a meal in itself and pairs nicely with ketchup and a simple green salad. Rave reviews from my husband, who grew up with Montana-style pasties. I can see why MyCommunalTable calls this her kind of comfort food -- it is easily on my list too. This recipe is awesome! - Lapadia —The Editors