Christmas Leftover Pie: A Hearty Twist with Lion’s Mane

Make the most of your festive leftovers with this hearty Christmas Leftover Pie. Combining turkey, ham, roasted veg, and the deep umami richness of Lion’s Mane mushrooms, this pie is both comforting and nutritious. To take things up a notch, we’re adding a velvety mushroom gravy made from Lion’s Mane stock, turkey juices, and ham essence – perfect for drizzling over your golden pie.

Serves 4-6 people

Ingredients

For the Lion’s Mane Stock:

• 15g dried Lion’s Mane mushrooms
• 1 litre hot water
• 1-2 tbsp miso paste (optional, for umami)
• Leftover ham essence and turkey juices (approx. 200ml)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pie Filling:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Leftover turkey or ham (approx. 300g, shredded/chopped)
• Leftover roasted veg (brussels sprouts, carrots, red cabbage, etc.) – approx. 2 cups, chopped
• Rehydrated Lion’s Mane mushrooms (from the stock), roughly chopped
• 2 tbsp plain flour (for thickening)
• 200ml Lion’s Mane stock (from above)
• 50ml cream or milk
• 1 tsp mustard (optional)
• 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (or fresh)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy:

• 300ml Lion’s Mane stock (from above)
• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 1 tbsp plain flour
• 1 tsp soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavour)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 pack pre-made puff pastry (or shortcrust pastry)
• 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)

 

Instructions

1. Make the Lion’s Mane Stock

• Place the dried Lion’s Mane mushrooms in a heatproof bowl and pour over 1 litre of hot water. Let steep for 30 minutes.
• Stir in leftover ham essence and turkey juices to create a savoury, festive stock. Add miso paste for an extra umami boost (optional).
• Strain the stock, reserving the liquid for the filling and gravy, and set the rehydrated Lion’s Mane mushrooms aside.

2. Prepare the Pie Filling

• Heat olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until soft (5 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Add the shredded turkey, ham, roasted veg, and chopped rehydrated Lion’s Mane mushrooms.
• Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to coat evenly.
• Gradually pour in 200ml of the Lion’s Mane stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
• Add the cream (or milk), mustard (if using), and thyme or rosemary. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Make the Savoury Gravy

• In a saucepan, melt 1 tbsp of butter or heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Stir in 1 tbsp of plain flour to make a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
• Gradually whisk in 300ml of the Lion’s Mane stock, stirring until smooth and thickened.
• Add soy sauce (optional) for extra depth, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy is glossy and rich.

4. Assemble the Pie

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
• Pour the pie filling into a large pie dish (or individual ramekins for single portions).
• Roll out the puff pastry and lay it over the pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
• Brush the top with the beaten egg and cut a small slit in the centre for steam to escape.

5. Bake and Serve

• Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crisp.
• Serve the pie hot, drizzled generously with the savoury Lion’s Mane gravy.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this pie with leftover cranberry sauce or a fresh side of steamed greens.
• For added richness, pour the gravy over creamy mashed potatoes.

 

Why Use Lion’s Mane?

Lion’s Mane mushrooms are a perfect festive addition, offering a deliciously meaty texture and impressive health benefits. Packed with beta-glucans and antioxidants, they support brain function, gut health, and immunity – a nutritious boost after indulgent holiday meals!

 

From Leftovers to Showstoppers - A Festive Treat

This Christmas Leftover Pie combines the best of your festive table with the earthy richness of Lion’s Mane. The addition of a velvety gravy made from leftover stock ensures every last bit of flavour is celebrated. Simple, comforting, and waste-free – it’s a dish that brings the family together for a delicious second round of festive feasting.

Ready to elevate your leftovers? Order premium dried Lion’s Mane mushrooms and give your meals a nutritious twist!

Shop Dried Lion's Mane Now

 

If you make this recipe using our Dried Lion’s Mane this Christmas, be sure to tag us on Instagram (@happyfungi.uk) with your creation – we’ll send you a free bag as a thank you!