There’s nothing like pies to bring the warmth of British cuisine to your table. From sweet to savory, the British pie is made of flaky pastries stuffed with fillings and sweet pies with fruit. All the British pies are the pride of British cuisine, and baked in the home kitchen, the recipes are made to be shared for public dining. Pies are made for public dining, festive occasions, and family dinners. If you’re looking to enjoy traditional British pies, or just the best the UK has to offer, there are five you must try.
Steak and Kidney Pie
This classic pie is made with slow-cooked beef and pork (or lamb) kidneys, onion, and rich gravy, then enveloped in golden shortcrust or puff pastry. In cold weather, this protein-rich pie makes a hearty meal. The offal in the pie is rich in vitamins and iron, and the flaky pastry is a wonderful treat for those craving gluten. The result is a classic British savory pie that is a favorite in pubs all over the UK.
Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie might be more of a casserole, but it still is a big part of British culture. The joy of eating a Shepherd’s Pie is that it is made with minced lamb, baked with succulent grilled vegetables, and topped with golden, creamy, satisfying mashed potato. Shepherd’s pie is a significant source of protein while also keeping the body full with the fibrous mashed potato. It is predominantly a British comfort food and is perfect for family meals! The common allergens are, of course, dairy from the mash and sometimes wheat.
Cornish Pasty
The Cornish pasty is a handheld pie filled with beef, potatoes, onions, and swede (rutabaga). The Cornish pasty is one of the UK’s most famous pies, along with this one. The unique crimped edge was designed for miners to hold while eating. Today, it’s enjoyed nationwide and even has protected status under EU law. With the unending carbs and proteins, it is also a balanced meal on the go. It contains gluten and dairy, more so with the pastry. Cornish pasty is also one of the most famous British pies you must try when exploring UK food.
Pork Pie
A classic British picnic favorite, pork pie is a well-loved British savory pie made with seasoned ground pork, hot water crust pastry, and a layer of savory jelly. Cold with pickles is how it is served, and with its rich protein and fat content, it is a picnic classic. It is gluten- and occasionally dairy-containing. This savory dish contains protein, fat, and carbs, making it a perfect complement to other British picnic foods. A must-taste.
Apple Pie
Worldwide, a classic favorite dessert pie, apple pie, is also a favorite dessert pie in the UK. With sweet and tart spiced apples and a flaky pastry shell, apple pie is a UK classic best served with cream, custard, or ice cream. Apples are rich in vitamins, but due to the sugar content in the pie, it should be eaten sparingly. The pie is made with gluten and dairy. As one of the British dessert pie classics, it is a perfect sweet complement to any meal.
Conclusion
The UK has a wonderful history with pies, from the delicious classics like steak and kidney pie to the sweet and delightful apple pie. These British pies are not just meals; they represent the history of a region and the stories of families. If you would like to try the best traditional British pies, start with these five and really enjoy the true tastes of the UK.
