In his book Ratios: The Simple Codes Behind the Craft of Everyday Cooking, food writer Michael Ruhlman reveals the cooking codes professional cooks use all the time. Here is Michael's formula for pie dough:

3 parts flour : 2 parts fat : 1 part liquid

By way of example, Ruhlman explains his method:

  • 12 ounces flour

  • 8 ounces butter (2 sticks)

  • 4 ounces cold water


 

Michael Ruhlman
Michael Ruhlman is an author, writer and food blogger. His books include Ruhlman's Twenty, Ratio: The Simple Codes Behind the Craft of Everyday Cooking, The Elements of Cooking: Translating the Chef's Craft for Every Kitchen and The Making of a Chef: Mastering Heat at the Culinary Institute of America, as well as several cookbook collaborations and non-fiction books.