Rappie Pie

Instructions

Rappie Pie is a traditional Acadian dish made from grated potatoes and meat, offering a hearty taste of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick’s culinary heritage.

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Grease a 10x14x2-inch baking pan.
2. Heat margarine in a skillet over medium heat; stir in onion. Cook and stir until onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low and continue to cook and stir until onion is very tender and dark brown, about 40 minutes more.
4. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large pot; stir in chicken breasts, reduce heat, and simmer until chicken is no longer pink at the center, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat. Remove chicken breasts to a plate using a slotted spoon; reserve broth.
5. Juice potatoes with an electric juicer; place dry potato flesh into a bowl and discard juice. Stir salt and pepper into potatoes; stir in enough reserved broth to make the mixture the consistency of oatmeal. Set remaining broth aside.
6. Spread half of potato mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Lay cooked chicken breast evenly over potatoes; scatter caramelized onion evenly over chicken. Spread remaining potato mixture over onions and chicken to cover.
7. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 1 hour. Reheat chicken broth; pour over individual servings as desired.

More About Rappie Pie

Rappie Pie, known as “râpure” in French, is a cherished traditional dish originating from Acadian culture in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. This hearty recipe is a true comfort food, often enjoyed at family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. The name “rappie” comes from the French word râper, which means “to grate,” highlighting the dish’s key preparation method.

At its heart, Rappie Pie is made by grating potatoes and removing their liquid, resulting in a starchy, dry pulp. This pulp is rehydrated with hot broth, giving the dish its signature soft, pudding-like texture. The recipe typically features layers of seasoned meat—such as chicken, pork, or beef—although some variations include seafood, making it adaptable to personal tastes.

Rappie Pie’s appeal lies in its rustic simplicity and rich flavors. While the preparation can be time-intensive, the result is a dish that captures the essence of Acadian culinary heritage. It’s often baked to golden perfection, creating a crisp top layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior.

Whether you’re exploring Acadian traditions or simply looking for a new comfort food to try, Rappie Pie is a recipe worth savoring. Pair it with a side of pickles, cranberry sauce, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Dive into the rich history of this dish and bring a taste of Acadian culture to your table!