Ep 8. Savory Pizza Rustica with Nick Malgieri

In season 3 episode 8 of Baking with Julia, master baker Nick Malgieri joins host Julia Child to make a savory pizza rustica. This Italian specialty is essentially a savory pie filled with a variety of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and spices. Nick starts by making the dough from scratch, which is a rich, buttery pastry dough that perfectly complements the rich filling.

Once the dough is made, Nick rolls it out and lines a deep-dish pie pan with it, making sure to leave enough excess dough to cover the top of the filling. Then, he starts making the filling, which is packed with a variety of flavors, textures, and ingredients. He starts by cooking up some chopped vegetables like zucchini and onion, and then adds in some cooked sausage and prosciutto. Next, he adds in some grated cheese, including provolone, mozzarella, and Parmesan. To bind it all together, he mixes in some beaten eggs and a touch of heavy cream.

Nick pours the filling into the prepared pie crust, and then carefully folds the excess dough over the top to create a sealed, decorative edge. He brushes the top with beaten egg to create a shiny, golden brown finish, and then bakes it in the oven until it's puffed and golden brown.

Once the pizza rustica is cooked and cooled, Nick and Julia slice it open to reveal the beautiful layers of filling inside. This is a dish that's perfect for a special occasion or a festive holiday feast, and it's sure to impress your guests with its hearty, savory flavors and gorgeous presentation.

Throughout the episode, Julia and Nick exchange tips and tricks for making perfect dough, choosing the best ingredients, and creating a dish that's both delicious and visually stunning. Their easy banter and comfortable familiarity with each other make this episode a joy to watch, and you'll be inspired to try your own version of this classic Italian dish in your own kitchen. Whether you're an experienced baker or a beginner just starting out, you're sure to learn something new and delicious from this episode of Baking with Julia.