Pâté au Saumon (Salmon Pie)

Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: December 17, 2022

My grandmaman always made the best pies. Maple sugar pies, blueberry pies, raisin pies, etc.  She always had a freezer full of homemade pies.  But the one I used to ask her to make the most when I was younger is this dinner pie.  It’s a simple pie, just mashed potatoes and a package of salmon.  Of course grandmaman made her pie crust from scratch.  That is on my bucket list of things to learn how to make.  One day, when I have more free hours in a day, I will conquer it.  For now I keep it simple and buy the ready made pie crusts.

Grandmaman used to make this pie around Easter time, for those meatless Fridays during Lent.  But this pie is great for any day of the week.  It’s easy to make and it tastes great.

You can boil your potatoes on the stove-top, but I actually boil mine in the microwave with my Pampered Chef Rice Cooker.  Only 10 minutes and they are fork tender.



You want the mashed potatoes to be moist, but not watery.  You don’t want a soggy pie crust.

I did end up adding a light egg wash over the crust before putting it in the oven to to get it to have a golden glow.

Typically in Quebec, they just slap on some ketchup and call it a meal.  And I am ok with that.  That is how I grew up eating it.  But, this time I wanted to fancy it up a bit, so I made a a creamy lemon dill sauce to accompany it.

Since Chobani was kind enough to send me some of their tasty Greek style yogurts to sample, I wanted to incorporate them into the sauce.  If you haven’t tried their yogurt yet, I highly recommend you try it.  And no they didn’t pay me to say that.  I have been eating their yogurt for a while now and like it better than the Yoplait I used to eat.  It does have a slightly sour aftertaste, but the the texture is smoother and the flavored ones don’t have that overly sweet taste that the other yogurts have.  I have used it in smoothies and some of my desserts with great results.  Even my little ones like Chobani.

I was really pleased at how creamy this sauce came out.  I think it would make a great veggie dip also.  I just put it on my slice of pie cold, but you can warm it up a little in the microwave if you like. 

You can serve this up with a side of veggies, or a salad.  Either way, it makes for a  delicious meal. And for those of you that are curious, yes my grandmaman is still alive and very healthy.  She just happens to live in an assisted living type facility and does not have a kitchen in her small apartment, so she doesn’t cook anymore.  I miss her pies.

Pâté au Saumon (Salmon Pie)



by The Sweet Chick

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Keywords: bake entree salmon mashed potatoes greek yogurt lemon Easter pie French Canadian

Ingredients (6-8 servings)

For the pie

  • 4 or 5 medium potatoes
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 (5 oz.) package pink salmon (skinless, boneless)
  • 2 – 9inch ready made pie crusts
  • 1 egg
  • salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce

  • 1/2 cup Chobani greek yogurt, plain
  • 1/3 cup mayonaise
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon peel
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Instructions



For the pie

Preheat oven to 375º F.

Peel and cut potatoes into halves, place in a medium pot and cover with water.

Bring water up to a boil over medium high heat on stove top and boil for 10-15 minutes or until potatoes are fork tender.

Drain potatoes and place in a large bowl. Mash potatoes until no longer lumpy.

Add butter and milk and mix by hand until completely blended. Then add salt and pepper to taste. (I am usually a little heavy on the salt.)

Add in the salmon and mix until all incorporated.

In a 9 1/2 inch pie plate, place the first pie crust at the bottom and fill with the potato/salmon mixture.

Next, place the second pie crust over the mixture. With your hands or a fork, go around the entire pie and press the two pie crusts together at the edges to seal. Cut off any excess crust with a knife.



Cut 3 or 4 small slits in the top crust to vent.

In a small bowl whisk the egg and with a pastry brush, brush a thin layer over the top pie crust.

Place pie in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is a golden color and flaky.

Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

For the sauce

Place all ingredients in a medium bowl and mix until well blended, then serve with the pie. If you want you can warm up the sauce in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until desired temperature is achieved.



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Is Tapioca Pudding Acidic? A Gentle Dessert or a Trigger?

Aneeza Pervez
Is Tapioca Pudding Acidic

Tapioca pudding is a creamy and comforting dessert made from tapioca pearls, milk, sugar, and vanilla. It’s loved for its smooth texture and mild flavor, making it a favorite treat for people of all ages. However, if you suffer from acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), you might wonder: Is tapioca pudding acidic, and can it trigger reflux symptoms?

In this article, we’ll delve into the acidity of tapioca pudding, whether it’s safe for acid reflux sufferers, and how to make it a reflux-friendly dessert. Additionally, we’ll discuss its nutritional benefits, provide tips for enjoying it without discomfort, and answer common questions about tapioca pudding and acid reflux.

Is Tapioca Pudding Acidic or Alkaline?

1. The Acidity of Tapioca

According to the Journal of Halal Science and Research Tapioca is derived from the cassava root, which has a neutral pH of 6.5 to 7.5. This makes tapioca itself non-acidic and gentle on the digestive system.



2. The Impact of Ingredients on Acidity

While tapioca is neutral, the other ingredients in tapioca pudding—such as milk and sugar—can influence its overall acidity. Milk, for example, has a slightly acidic pH, but its alkaline-forming properties during digestion make it generally reflux-friendly.

3. Tapioca Pudding’s Overall Acidity

Tapioca pudding, as a dish, is mildly acidic but usually gentle enough for most acid reflux sufferers when prepared with reflux-friendly ingredients.

Author Tip: Is Tapioca Acidic?

Can Tapioca Pudding Trigger Acid Reflux?

Tapioca pudding is not a common trigger for acid reflux, but some factors could cause symptoms in certain individuals:

1. High-Fat Dairy

If whole milk or heavy cream is used in the recipe, the high fat content may relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), leading to reflux symptoms.

2. Added Sugars

Excessive sugar can increase stomach acidity, potentially causing discomfort for those with sensitive stomachs.

3. Portion Size

Eating large portions of tapioca pudding can put pressure on the stomach, increasing the likelihood of reflux.



4. Individual Sensitivities

Everyone’s body reacts differently to certain foods. While tapioca pudding is typically mild, some individuals may still experience symptoms based on their personal tolerance.

Why Tapioca Pudding May Be Suitable for Acid Reflux?

Tapioca pudding, when prepared thoughtfully, offers several benefits that make it a good choice for people with acid reflux:

1. Neutral pH of Tapioca

Tapioca is naturally non-acidic, making it a gentle ingredient that is unlikely to irritate the digestive system.

2. Digestive-Friendly Texture

The smooth, creamy texture of tapioca pudding is easy to digest and can help soothe an irritated esophagus.

3. Alkaline Properties of Milk

Milk used in tapioca pudding can help neutralize stomach acid, providing relief from heartburn in some cases. Opt for low-fat or plant-based milk to maximize reflux-friendliness.

4. Customizable Recipe

Tapioca pudding can be easily adapted to suit dietary restrictions and reflux needs by swapping out ingredients like sugar and whole milk.

Tips for Making Reflux-Friendly Tapioca Pudding

Follow these tips to ensure your tapioca pudding is gentle on the stomach and safe for acid reflux sufferers:

1. Use Low-Fat or Plant-Based Milk

Replace whole milk or cream with low-fat milk, almond milk, or oat milk to reduce fat content and minimize the risk of reflux.



2. Limit Added Sugar

Sweeten your tapioca pudding with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar. Use these in moderation.

3. Avoid Heavy Toppings

Skip high-fat or acidic toppings like whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or citrus fruits. Instead, opt for reflux-friendly options like sliced bananas or blueberries.

4. Eat in Moderation

Stick to a small portion size to avoid overeating, which can put pressure on the stomach and lead to reflux symptoms.

Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis

Reflux-Friendly Tapioca Pudding Recipe

Here’s a simple and acid reflux-friendly tapioca pudding recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup small tapioca pearls
  • 2 cups low-fat milk (or almond milk for a plant-based option)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Soak the tapioca pearls in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. In a saucepan, combine the soaked tapioca pearls and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 10–15 minutes).
  3. Add honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract, then stir until well combined.
  4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
  5. Top with reflux-friendly options like sliced bananas or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

This recipe makes 2–3 servings of creamy, satisfying tapioca pudding that’s gentle on the stomach.

Nutritional Benefits of Tapioca Pudding

Tapioca pudding is not just a tasty treat—it offers several nutritional benefits:

1. Gluten-Free

Tapioca is naturally gluten-free, making it a great dessert option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

2. Energy Boost

Tapioca is rich in carbohydrates, providing a quick source of energy.



3. Low in Fat

When made with low-fat milk, tapioca pudding is a low-fat dessert that’s gentle on the stomach.

4. Supports Digestive Health

The easy-to-digest nature of tapioca pudding makes it a suitable option for individuals with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.

FAQs About Tapioca Pudding and Acid Reflux

1. Is tapioca pudding acidic?

Tapioca pudding is mildly acidic due to the milk and sweeteners used, but tapioca itself is neutral. It’s typically well-tolerated by individuals with acid reflux.

2. Can tapioca pudding cause acid reflux?

Tapioca pudding is unlikely to cause reflux if prepared with reflux-friendly ingredients and consumed in moderation. High-fat dairy or excessive sugar may trigger symptoms in some individuals.

3. What are reflux-friendly toppings for tapioca pudding?

Non-acidic toppings like bananas, blueberries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon are great choices. Avoid chocolate, citrus fruits, or heavy creams.

4. Is store-bought tapioca pudding safe for acid reflux?

Store-bought tapioca pudding may contain added sugars, preservatives, or high-fat dairy, which can trigger reflux. Homemade tapioca pudding allows for better control over ingredients.

5. Can I eat tapioca pudding every day?

Tapioca pudding can be enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Eating it every day may not be ideal due to its sugar content.

Conclusion

Tapioca pudding is a mild, creamy dessert that’s generally safe for individuals with acid reflux when prepared with the right ingredients. Its neutral pH, gentle texture, and versatility make it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a sweet treat without triggering reflux symptoms.

By using low-fat or plant-based milk, limiting sugar, and avoiding acidic toppings, you can create a reflux-friendly version of tapioca pudding that’s both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy it as an occasional dessert or snack, and savor the comforting flavors without worry.



If you’re looking for more reflux-friendly recipes and tips, explore our other articles for expert insights and practical advice!



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