The Most British Pies
Ah, pies – the cornerstone of British cuisine, the crowning glory of our culinary heritage 👑. Whether you’re tucking into a hearty steak and kidney, indulging in a sweet appley dessert, or grabbing a quick pork pie on the go, there’s no denying that pies are as British as talking about the weather, tucking into a Sunday roast and indulging in an afternoon tea ☕. But which pies truly capture the essence of Blighty? Grab your fork and let’s dig into a deliciously fun exploration of the most British pies that have ever graced our plates!
Steak and Kidney Pie 🥩
Let’s start with a classic that’s as iconic as Big Ben: the Steak and Kidney Pie. This pie is the epitome of British heartiness, with its rich filling of tender beef, earthy (truly offal to some) kidneys, and a thick, meaty gravy that’ll have you licking the plate clean (if you’re a kidney fan!). All of this is encased in a golden, flaky pastry that’s as comforting as a woolly jumper on a cold winter’s day. It’s a pie that’s not for the faint of heart – but if you’re up for it, it’s a true British treasure.
Pork Pie 🐖
Next up, we’ve got the pork pie – the portable pie that’s perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a sneaky snack whenever the mood strikes. These small but mighty pies are packed with seasoned pork, surrounded by a layer of savoury jelly (ours controversially have none!), and encased in a firm, golden crust. Best enjoyed cold, the pork pie is the quintessential British snack that’s been keeping us going since the days of the Victorian workman. Pair our Squealer Pork Pie with a dollop of mustard or a tangy pickle, and you’ve got yourself a proper British bite!
Shepherd’s Pie 🐑
Although traditionally not a pie-pie, with its fluffy mashed potato topping and rich lamb filling, it’s a dish that’s earned its place in the pie hall of fame. Originating in the sheep-grazing regions of England, shepherd’s pie is a comfort food classic that warms the soul. The key to a great shepherd’s pie? A filling made with tender minced lamb, carrots, peas, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce, all topped off with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes that’s baked to golden perfection. It’s a slice of British comfort on a plate. Try our Sheep Pie that has a crisp crust in place of the potato and uses mutton for extra flavour!
Chicken and Mushroom Pie 🍗
If there’s one pie that screams “pub grub,” it’s the Chicken and Mushroom Pie. This pub favourite is all about the creamy filling – tender chunks of chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, velvety sauce that’s so good, you won't be able to stop yourself mopping it up with your chips. Pair it with a pint of ale and you’ve nailed the British pub experience at home 🍺.
Steak Pasty 🥔
We couldn’t leave out the Steak Pasty – the handheld pie that’s been fuelling workers and adventurers alike for centuries. Originating from the West Country (Devon makes it best 😜), this iconic bake is filled with a hearty mix of beef, potatoes, onions, and swede, just the right amount of seasoning, then encased in a sturdy, crimped pastry. It’s a thing of beauty done right!
Meat and Potato Pie 🥔
Hail from the north? Then you’ll be familiar with the beloved meat and potato pie. This humble pie is a staple in the northern counties, where it’s been keeping folks warm and satisfied for generations. The filling is a simple but satisfying mix of minced beef, potatoes, and onions, all seasoned to perfection and baked inside a golden pastry shell. It’s the kind of pie that sticks to your ribs and keeps you going all day – just the thing you need after a long walk on the fells.
Apple Pie 🍏
When it comes to pudding, the humble apple pie has to get a mention. With a good old dollop of cream, this is a sweet treat, you cannot go wrong! This is a dessert that has been gobbled in our nation since the 14th Century!
Wrapping Up Our Pie-tastic Journey
And that concludes our delicious tour of the most British pies that ever were! From the hearty steak and kidney pie to the sweet apple pie, these dishes are more than just food – they’re a slice of British culture, steeped in history and tradition. So, the next time you tuck into one of these classic pies, try to take a moment to appreciate the rich heritage behind it!
go on – take a Chunk!