Galician Pie
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
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The Galician pie, or empanada Gallega, is a corner stone of Spanish soul food. This impressive savoury bake features a beautifully enriched, golden yeast pastry that encases a succulent filling of tender meat and smoky chorizo. Unlike smaller hand-held pastries, this substantial dish is baked in a large tin, allowing the flavours of the slow-cooked onions, garlic, and roasted peppers to meld perfectly with the protein.
As a high-protein main course, this homemade pie is ideal for family gatherings or a rustic weekend lunch. The combination of lean pork tenderloin or chicken breast with traditional Spanish spices makes it both satisfying and nutritious. Serve it warm from the oven for a comforting meal, or enjoy it at room temperature as part of a Mediterranean-style picnic.
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Ingredients for Galician Pie
5g (1 package) active-dry yeast
180ml lukewarm water
3 eggs
850ml plain flour, plus extra for dusting
1 tablespoon margarine, at room temperature
2 tablespoons sunflower oil, plus extra for brushing
400g pork tenderloin or skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into strips
2 canned or bottled peppers, or roasted peppers, drained and cut into strips
salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 onions, coarsely chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 chorizo sausage, sliced
How to make Galician Pie
Mash the yeast with a pinch of salt and the lukewarm water in a cup or small bowl until smooth, then let stand for about 10 minutes, until the mixture is frothy. Beat two of the eggs in a bowl. Sift the flour with a pinch of salt onto a work surface. Make a well in the centre and pour in the beaten egg and yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour into the liquid, then knead well for 10 minutes. Dust the surface lightly with flour to prevent the dough sticking. Add the margarine and knead for 10 minutes more, banging the dough onto the surface. Add a little water to the dough if necessary. Once the dough is smooth and elastic, form it into a ball, place it in a bowl, and cover with a clean dish towel. Let rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, until doubled in volume. Meanwhile, make the "rustido." Heat the olive oil in a skillet. Add the onions and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and parsley and cook for 5 minutes more. Stir in the chorizo and cook for 2 minutes more. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside. Heat the sunflower oil in a skillet. Add the strips of meat and cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, for about 8 minutes, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside. Preheat the oven to 177°C. Brush a 12-inch baking pan or ovenproof baking dish with oil. Divide the dough into two pieces, one slightly bigger than the other. Roll out the larger piece on a lightly floured surface and use to line the pan or dish. Spread half the rustido over the dough. Lay the strips of meat on the rustido and add the strips of pepper. Spoon the remaining rustido over the top. Roll out the remaining dough and use it to cover the mixture. Seal the edges of the dough carefully, pressing them together and rolling them slightly. Pinch the dough in the centre of the pie with two fingers to create a chimney to allow the steam to escape. Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the dough to glaze. Bake for 15 minutes, then increase the oven temperature to 191°C, and bake for 15 minutes longer. Increase the oven temperature to 204°C and bake for 15 minutes more, until golden brown. Remove the pie from the oven. Serve hot or warm, straight from the dish, if you prefer.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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