Picture this: a golden, flaky crust cradling a savory filling of tender pork, herbs, and spices. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this traditional British pork pie. It’s a classic dish that brings a taste of the countryside to your home, perfect for picnics or as a hearty snack.
This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a delightful, handmade pie that’s bursting with flavor. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from the crust paired with a rich, meaty filling that’s beautifully seasoned. It’s a dish that will impress family and friends alike.
Whether you’re enjoying it warm or cold, this pork pie is a true celebration of British cuisine. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a quaint English bakery.
Creating the Perfect Pork Pie
Making a traditional pork pie is a rewarding culinary endeavor that brings together quality ingredients, patience, and technique.
Start by preparing the filling with a blend of minced pork shoulder, pork belly, and diced pork fat.
This combination not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a moist filling.
Season with finely chopped onion, salt, pepper, and a mix of thyme, nutmeg, and ginger for that authentic taste.
Mastering the Pastry
The pastry is crucial for a great pork pie.
Using shortcrust pastry provides that flaky crust that perfectly encapsulates the savory filling.
After rolling out the pastry, line your pie dish and save a portion for the lid.
It’s important to press the filling down gently to create a compact structure that holds its shape when baked.
Assembling Your Pie
Once your filling is prepared and your pastry is ready, it’s time to assemble.
Cover the filled pastry case with the reserved lid, crimping the edges to seal it thoroughly.
Make sure to cut a small hole in the top to allow steam to escape during baking.
This step is vital to ensure a well-cooked pie without any soggy bottoms.
The Baking Process
Preheating your oven is essential for achieving that perfect golden brown crust.
Brush the top of the pie with beaten egg to promote a beautiful sheen during baking.
Place the pie in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about an hour.
Keep an eye on it, as the aroma will signal when it’s nearly ready.
Serving Suggestions
After baking, allow the pie to cool before slicing.
This cooling period helps the filling set, making for cleaner slices.
If you choose, pour a bit of jelly into the hole on top of the pie for added flavor and an appealing presentation.
Serve it warm for a comforting meal or cold as part of a delightful picnic spread.
The Experience of Enjoying Pork Pie
Enjoying a slice of traditional pork pie is a sensory experience.
The combination of the flaky pastry and savory, seasoned pork filling is a true delight.
Pair it with pickles or a fresh salad for a complete meal that resonates with rustic charm.
Whether at a gathering or a quiet evening at home, this dish captures the essence of comfort food.
Authentic Pork Pie Recipe
This traditional pork pie features a crispy pastry shell filled with a succulent mixture of minced pork, spices, and occasionally, a jelly for added flavor. The combination of textures and flavors makes each slice a delight, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 500g pork shoulder, minced
- 250g pork belly, minced
- 100g pork fat, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 200g shortcrust pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
- Jelly (optional, for filling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the minced pork, pork belly, pork fat, onion, salt, pepper, thyme, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
- Make the Pastry: Roll out the shortcrust pastry and line a pie dish, reserving some pastry for the lid. Fill the pastry case with the pork mixture, pressing it down gently.
- Cover with Pastry: Roll out the reserved pastry and place it over the top of the pie. Crimp the edges to seal, and cut a small hole in the lid to allow steam to escape.
- Glaze and Bake: Brush the top with beaten egg. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 1 hour, or until the pastry is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool before slicing. Optionally, pour jelly into the hole for added flavor and moisture.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 6 slices
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 20g