Foolproof Pie Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a food processor, combine 1 and a half cups of unbleached all-purpose flour with the table salt and sugar. Pulse for about two seconds to mix these dry ingredients together.

2. Add Fats

Scatter the cold unsalted butter slices and chilled solid vegetable shortening pieces over the flour mix in the food processor. Pulse for about 15 seconds until the mixture looks like cottage cheese curds with no dry flour visible.

3. Incorporate Remaining Flour

Open the food processor to redistribute the dough. Sprinkle in the remaining cup of unbleached all-purpose flour and pulse the machine 4 to 6 times, just until the flour is incorporated. The dough will start to form more coherently.

4. Add Liquids

Transfer the dough to a medium bowl. Drizzle cold vodka and cold water over the dough. Use a rubber spatula to fold and press the dough until it comes together into a slightly tacky, cohesive mass.

5. Chill Dough

Divide the dough into two even portions, shape each into a flat disk, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for at least 45 minutes, or up to two days.