If you’re a fan of savoury pies, you’ve likely heard of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie. This delectable British classic is renowned for its rich, hot water crust pastry and succulent pork filling. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Pork Pie recipe, explore the best way to bake one at home, and even take a virtual trip to the legendary Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe, run by the famous Dickinson and Morris. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newcomer to the kitchen, we’ll provide all the information you need to craft an authentic, mouth-watering Pork Pie in the comfort of your home.
Table of contents
- An Overview of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
- A Brief History of Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
- How to make a melton mowbray pork pie?
- English Pork Pie: A Savory Delight from Across the Pond
- Exploring the Art of Hot Water Crust Pastry: A Culinary Marvel
- Crafting the Perfect Melton Mowbray Pork Pie at Home
- Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe: A Culinary Icon
- Nutritional Information and Allergen Concerns
- Ordering Melton Mowbray Pork Pies Online
- In Conclusion
- FAQs
An Overview of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
The Melton Mowbray Pork Pie, often referred to simply as the “Melton Pork Pie,” is a British culinary treasure. It originated in the charming town of Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, in the late 18th century. Known for its distinctive, handcrafted appearance, this pie boasts a crispy hot water crust pastry, encasing a delicious blend of free-range pork, lard, and rich seasonings. The pie is traditionally made without a pastry case, and its unique shape and open top make it easily recognizable.
A Brief History of Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
The story of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie goes hand in hand with the history of Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe, run by Dickinson and Morris. This iconic establishment has been crafting these delightful pies for generations, earning itself an enviable reputation for producing some of the finest pork pies in the world.
Dickinson and Morris: A Legacy of Excellence
The Dickinson and Morris shop, also known as Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe, has been a staple in the town of Melton Mowbray for over 160 years. The business was founded by John Dickinson in 1851 and later joined by Joseph Morris. Their commitment to quality and tradition has made them synonymous with the Pork Pie. The shop is located in a distinctive, historic building, which is as much a part of the town’s culture as the delicious pies themselves.
The Award-Winning Tradition
One of the hallmarks of the Pork Pie is its quality and authenticity. It’s not just locals who appreciate this culinary delight; the pie has received numerous awards and accolades for its mouth-watering taste and traditional preparation. This includes the esteemed Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, which ensures that only pies made in the Melton Mowbray area using a specific recipe and ingredients can bear the name “Melton Mowbray Pork Pie.”
How to make a melton mowbray pork pie?
To make a Melton Mowbray pork pie, start by preparing the signature hot water crust pastry using flour, hot water, lard, and egg. Then, craft the filling with high-quality, free-range pork, seasoned with pepper, salt, and a touch of jelly. Line the pastry case with the unique open-top design, bake until golden, and enjoy this iconic British delicacy that’s both authentic and mouth-wateringly delicious.
- How to eat melton pork pie?
Slice and savor the iconic Melton Mowbray pork pie, enjoying the crispy pastry and succulent pork filling.
- How is the pastry of a Melton Pork Pie made?
The pastry is created using a mixture of flour, hot water, lard, and egg, resulting in a robust yet flaky crust.
- How long does a Melton Mowbray Pork Pie typically stay fresh?
When stored in the fridge, a Melton Mowbray Pork Pie can remain fresh for several days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
Melton Mowbray pork pie
Equipment
- Pie Tin: A round pie tin with a removable base is ideal for shaping the pastry and holding the filling.
- Rolling Pin: To flatten and roll out the pastry for the crust.
- Mixing Bowls For preparing the pastry and seasoning the pork.
- Pastry Brush: Used to glaze the pie with egg wash before baking for a golden finish.
- Oven To bake the pie until the pastry is crispy and the meat is cooked.
- Wooden Dolly: While not necessary for home baking, a wooden dolly can be used to shape the pastry in the traditional way.
- Knife For trimming excess pastry and cutting slices when serving.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons To accurately measure the ingredients for the pastry and filling.
Ingredients
- 500g 4 cups Plain flour.
- 200ml 1 cup hot water.
- 200g 7 ounces lard.
- 1 egg egg wash
- A pinch of salt.
- A dollop of pork jelly or gelatine.
Instructions
- In a separate bowl, mix the minced or finely chopped pork with salt and white pepper to taste.
- Layer the seasoned pork inside the pastry case, pressing it down to ensure a snug fit
- Add a small dollop of pork jelly on top of the pork filling.
- Roll out the smaller portion of pastry to create a lid for the pie.
- Place the pastry lid on top and seal the edges with the base pastry, crimping them together.
- Make a hole in the center of the pastry lid, as traditional Melton Mowbray Pork Pies have an open-top design.
- Brush the top of the pie with a beaten egg to create a golden finish.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Place the pie in the oven and bake for approximately 60 to 75 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown, and the meat inside is thoroughly cooked.
- Once baked, allow the pie to cool before slicing and serving.
Video
Notes
English Pork Pie: A Savory Delight from Across the Pond
The English Pork Pie is a classic savoury pastry dish that has been satisfying taste buds for centuries. This iconic British treat features a rich and flaky hot water crust pastry, which encases a flavorful filling of seasoned minced pork. The marriage of tender meat, hearty seasoning, and that unmistakable pastry crunch is what makes this pie a beloved staple in British cuisine. Often enjoyed at picnics, pubs, and family gatherings, the English Pork Pie encapsulates the essence of comfort food with a delightful touch of culinary heritage. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional recipe or seeking modern twists on this timeless favourite, exploring the world of English pork pies is a mouthwatering adventure that promises to please.
Exploring the Art of Hot Water Crust Pastry: A Culinary Marvel
Hot water crust pastry, a time-honoured technique in the world of baking, is a marvel of culinary craftsmanship. With its origins dating back to medieval times, this rich pastry method has been used to create iconic dishes like the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie and traditional meat pies. What sets hot water crust pastry apart is its unique blend of hot water, lard, and flour, resulting in a dough that’s not only sturdy but malleable. This makes it ideal for covering delicious fillings, whether it’s succulent pork, savoury minced meat, or even vegetarian alternatives. As we delve into the art of hot water crust pastry, we’ll uncover its history, versatility, and role in shaping some of the most beloved savoury pies in the culinary world.
Crafting the Perfect Melton Mowbray Pork Pie at Home
While visiting Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe in Melton Mowbray would be a dream for many, you can enjoy the same authentic taste in the comfort of your own kitchen. Let’s explore a basic recipe for making a homemade Melton Mowbray Pork Pie.
The Ingredients
To create the perfect Mowbray Pork Pie, you’ll need a handful of essential ingredients:
- Pastry: The heart of this pie is the hot water crust pastry. It’s robust and capable of holding the filling while remaining deliciously flaky. You’ll need flour, hot water, lard, salt, and egg to create this pastry.
- Filling: The star of the show is the pork filling. Use high-quality, free-range pork, seasoned with pepper, salt, and a touch of jelly.
- Jelly: Pork gelatine is used to create the jelly that lines the inside of the pie. It’s a crucial element in keeping the pie moist and adding flavor.
The Process
- Create the Pastry: Start by mixing flour and salt. In a separate pan, bring water and lard to a boil, then combine the two mixtures. Allow it to cool until it’s easy to handle.
- Mold the Pastry: Shape the pastry into a ball and roll it out. Carefully line a pie tin with the pastry, ensuring it’s securely pressed against the sides.
- Layer the Filling: Layer the seasoned pork inside the pastry case, pressing it down to ensure a snug fit.
- Seal the Pie: Add a pastry lid and make a hole in the centre. This open-top design is a signature feature of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie.
- Bake: Place the pie in the oven, letting it bake until the pastry is golden brown and the meat inside is cooked to perfection.
- Enjoy: Once your homemade Melton Mowbray Pork Pie has cooled, you can slice into it and savor the mouth-watering result of your culinary efforts.
Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe: A Culinary Icon
If you’re fortunate enough to visit Melton Mowbray, a trip to Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe is a must. This iconic establishment is the heart of all things Melton Mowbray Pork Pie. The shop is a treasure trove of flavours, history, and tradition.
The Wooded Dolly Tradition
One of the distinct elements of Dickinson and Morris’s approach to making Melton Mowbray Pork Pies is the use of a wooden dolly. This tool, often referred to as a “pie dolly,” helps shape the pie’s hot water crust pastry. It’s a time-honoured technique that contributes to the pie’s authentic appearance and taste.
Daily Supplies of Fresh Pies
Dickinson and Morris take pride in supplying their customers with the freshest Melton Mowbray Pork Pies daily. These pies are baked to perfection in the heart of Melton Mowbray, ensuring that every bite is as delightful as the first.
Nutritional Information and Allergen Concerns
For those with dietary concerns, it’s essential to know the nutritional information and allergen details of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie.
Nutritional Information
- Calcium: The pie provides an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.
- Iron: Pork is a rich source of iron, crucial for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
Allergen Information
- Palm Oil: Some pastry recipes may include palm oil. If you have concerns about its environmental impact, it’s worth checking the ingredients.
- Rapeseed Oil: This oil, often used in pie pastry, is known for its health benefits, being low in saturated fat and high in unsaturated fats.
- Pasteurized Egg: If you have egg allergies or concerns, ensure that the pastry uses pasteurized egg.
- Wheat Flour: The hot water crust pastry typically contains wheat flour, which may be a concern for those with wheat allergies or gluten sensitivities.
Ordering Melton Mowbray Pork Pies Online
While there’s nothing quite like enjoying a freshly baked Melton Mowbray Pork Pie in the town of its origin, you can still savor this delectable treat no matter where you are. Many reputable suppliers offer the option to order authentic Melton Mowbray Pork Pies online.
Delivery to Your Door
The convenience of online ordering means you can have these mouth-watering pies delivered right to your doorstep. You can enjoy a taste of Melton Mowbray without leaving the comfort of your home.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Melton Mowbray Pork Pies are perfect for a wide range of occasions, from picnics to family gatherings and celebrations. They add a touch of British tradition to any event.
In Conclusion
The Pork Pie is a British culinary legend, steeped in history and tradition. It’s not just a delicious treat but a symbol of the town of Melton Mowbray and the craftsmanship of Dickinson and Morris. Whether you choose to visit the iconic Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe, embark on a homemade pie-making adventure, or order these pies online, you’re in for a delightful experience.
FAQs
A “pork pie” is a generic term for a meat-filled pastry, while “Melton Mowbray” specifically refers to a traditional British pork pie known for its open-top design and PGI-protected status when made in the town of Melton Mowbray.
The Pork Pie is special for its distinct hot water crust pastry, open-top design, and succulent, seasoned pork filling, all meticulously crafted with centuries of tradition.
The most famous pork pie is the “Melton Mowbray Pork Pie,” celebrated for its distinctive hot water crust pastry and succulent pork filling.
Melton Mowbray pork pies are traditionally made in the town of Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, United Kingdom.
Yes, you can heat Melton Mowbray pork pies by placing them in the oven until they are warm and the pastry is crispy.
