Canadian Meat Pie --( Tourtiere )

Prep time : ...30 minutes ...Bake : 30 minutes + standing time ... Makes 8 servings
2 ...................cups all-purpose flour
1 ...................teaspoon salt
2/3 ...............cup plus 2 tablespoons shortening
1 ...................egg beaten
2 to 3 ............tablespoons cold water
FILLING :
3/4 ...............pound ground beef
3/4 ...............pound ground pork
1 ...................medium onion , chopped
1 ...................garlic clove , minced
1/4 ................cup water
1 ...................teaspoon salt
1/2 ................teaspoon rubbed sage
1/2 ................teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 ................teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 ................teaspoon pepper
1/8 ................teaspoon ground cloves
......................Milk
1) In a large bowl , combine flour and salt . Cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs . Add egg and water , toss lightly with a folk until dough forms a ball . Divide dough in half ; wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate .
2) In a large skillet , cook the beef , pork , onion and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink ; drain . Stir in the seasoning ; heat through .
3) On a floured surface , roll out one portion of dough . Line a 9-inch pie plate with bottom pastry . Spoon filling into crust . Roll out remaining dough to fit top of pie . Place over filling . Seal and flute edges . Brush pastry with milk ; cut slits in top .
4 ) Bake at 375* for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown , covering the edges loosely with foil if necessary . Let stand for 15 minutes before cutting .
This hearty meat pie has a filling seasoned with a teasty combination of herbs and spices and is topped with a flakey crust . Also called tourtiere , it's a dish traditionally served by French Canadians following Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve .