The Melton Mowbray pork pie is a celebrated British delicacy renowned for its savory, spiced pork filling encased in a crisp, golden crust. Originating from the market town of Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire, this iconic pie has been a staple of British cuisine for centuries. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make an authentic Melton Mowbray pork pie at home, providing tips and techniques to ensure your pie turns out perfectly.
What Makes a Melton Mowbray Pork Pie Special?
The Melton Mowbray pork pie is distinguished by its unique pastry and traditional filling. Unlike other pork pies, it features a hot water crust pastry, which is different from the shortcrust or puff pastry typically used in other pies. The filling is made with a blend of pork and spices, creating a rich and flavorful taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 500g (4 cups) plain flour
- 100g (7 tbsp) lard
- 100g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 150ml (5 fl oz) hot water
For the Filling:
- 500g (1 lb) pork shoulder, finely chopped
- 250g (½ lb) pork belly, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground sage
- 1 tsp ground thyme
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 50g (¼ cup) pork fat (optional, for added richness)
- 100ml (3.4 fl oz) chicken or vegetable stock
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pastry:
- Heat the Lard and Butter: In a saucepan, melt the lard and butter with hot water. Stir until fully combined and let cool slightly.
- Mix the Flour: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Pour the melted fat mixture into the flour and mix until a dough forms. Knead until smooth. Allow the dough to cool slightly before using.
Learn more: BBC Good Food – Hot Water Crust Pastry Recipe
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the pork shoulder, pork belly, sage, thyme, pepper, salt, and pork fat if using. Add the stock and mix well.
- Chill: Refrigerate the filling while you prepare the pastry.
3. Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Shape the Pastry: Roll out two-thirds of the pastry and line a 23cm (9-inch) pie tin. Trim the excess.
- Fill the Pie: Pack the pork filling into the pastry case. Roll out the remaining pastry and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and trim excess pastry. Make a small hole in the top to allow steam to escape.
- Egg Wash: Brush the top of the pie with beaten egg for a golden finish.
4. Bake the Pie:
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
- Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling to set properly.
Learn more: Delicious Magazine – Pork Pie Recipe
Tips for Perfect Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
- Use Chilled Ingredients: Ensure the lard, butter, and water are hot when mixing with the flour, but the dough should be allowed to cool slightly before handling.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overworking the pastry can make it tough. Mix until just combined and handle gently.
- Chill the Filling: Keeping the filling cold helps it maintain its texture and flavor.
- Allow Cooling Time: Let the pie cool completely before serving to allow the filling to set.
FAQs About Melton Mowbray Pork Pies
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I use a different type of pastry? | Traditional Melton Mowbray pies use hot water crust pastry. Other types, like shortcrust or puff pastry, won’t give the same texture and flavor. |
| How can I make my pie spicier? | Add additional spices like cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the pork filling to increase the heat. |
| Can I freeze Melton Mowbray pork pies? | Yes, you can freeze the pies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. |
| What’s the best way to reheat a pork pie? | Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy. |
| Can I make the filling ahead of time? | Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the pie. |
Internal Links
External Links
- BBC Good Food – Hot Water Crust Pastry Recipe
- Delicious Magazine – Pork Pie Recipe
- The Spruce Eats – How to Make Pork Pie
Conclusion
Making a Melton Mowbray pork pie at home might seem daunting, but with the right recipe and techniques, it’s achievable and highly rewarding. Whether you’re preparing this classic British dish for a special occasion or just to enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe will guide you through every step. Enjoy the rich flavors and crispy pastry of your homemade Melton Mowbray pork pie!