Saffron Pear Pie

Ingredients:
-
1 pre-made or homemade pie crust (9-inch)
-
5-6 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
-
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
-
1/4 cup warm water
-
3/4 cup granulated sugar
-
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
-
1 teaspoon lemon juice
-
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
-
1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
-
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
-
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Soak saffron threads in warm water for about 10 minutes to release their color and flavor.
-
In a large bowl, toss sliced pears with sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and saffron water (including the threads). Mix gently to combine.
-
Roll out pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the pear mixture into the crust and dot with butter pieces.
-
Cover with a top crust or lattice if desired, and seal edges. Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.
-
Cut a few slits in the top crust to vent steam.
-
Bake for 45-50 minutes until crust is golden and filling is bubbly.
-
Let cool before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar.
Enjoy your fragrant and elegant saffron pear pie!