It is possible to bake
your pie crust in the microwave. Be aware it will not brown exactly
as in the oven but it will cook.
Microwave
Pecan Crust
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons ground pecans
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons vegetable shortening
2 tablespoons cold water
- In a small mixing bowl,
stir together flour, pecans and salt. Cut in shortening with
a fork until the pieces are the size of small peas. Sprinkle
up to 2 tablespoons cold water over the mixture, a tablespoon
at a time; gently toss with a fork, pushing to side of the bowl
and repeating until all is moistened. Form the dough into a ball.
- On a lightly floured surface,
roll the ball into a circle. Line a microwave-safe pie plate
with the pastry and flute the edge. Cover the surface of pastry
with plastic wrap. Spread dried beans on top of the plastic wrap
to a depth of 1 inch. Microwave, uncovered, on MEDIUM for 6 minutes,
rotating the dish a half-turn every 2 minutes. Carefully lift
the plastic wrap and beans from the pastry. Microwave, uncovered,
on HIGH for about 2 minutes or browned.
Makes 8 servings.
Note: Though the crust
will brown in the microwave and remain tender, pre-baking it
in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10
minutes will give you a more evenly browned, flakier crust.
