Pork pies are a beloved British classic, with their flaky pastry and savory filling. But what happens when you have leftovers?
Can you heat up a pork pie, or is it sacrilege to mess with this traditional dish?
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of reheating pork pies, as well as some tips for making the perfect crust.
So grab a cuppa and settle in – it’s time to talk about everyone’s favorite pastry!
Can You Heat Pork Pies?
The short answer is yes, you can heat up pork pies. However, there are some important things to consider before you pop that pie in the oven.
Firstly, it’s important to note that reheating meat pies can be risky if they haven’t been stored properly. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus can form in poorly stored meat pies, which can cause vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. To avoid this, make sure to refrigerate any leftover hot pies quickly and don’t let them sit out at room temperature for longer than two hours before reheating.
When it comes to reheating, it’s best to avoid using a microwave as it can ruin the pastry. Instead, pop the pie into an oven at 180°C and heat it until it reaches an internal temperature of 72°C or higher.
While some people swear by reheated pork pies, others argue that the texture and flavor are compromised when heated. The rugged and “set” solidity of a cold pie’s filling, the waxy coolness of its pastry, and the sparky clarity of its seasonings are all key to its appeal. Ultimately, whether or not you choose to heat up your pork pie is a matter of personal preference.
How To Reheat Pork Pies: Methods And Tips
If you do decide to heat up your pork pie, there are a few methods you can use to ensure it comes out as delicious as possible. Here are some tips:
1. Use an oven: As mentioned earlier, using a microwave can ruin the pastry and compromise the texture of the pie. Instead, use an oven to reheat your pork pie.
2. Preheat the oven: Make sure to preheat your oven to 180°C before putting the pie in.
3. Cover with foil: Covering your pork pie with foil while reheating it will help prevent the pastry from burning or drying out.
4. Check the internal temperature: To make sure your pork pie is fully heated through, check its internal temperature with a food thermometer. It should reach a minimum temperature of 72°C.
5. Partially heat in the microwave: If you’re short on time, you can partially heat your pork pie in the microwave before finishing it off in the oven. This will ensure that the interior gets heated while the exterior crisps up.
6. Avoid refreezing: Refreezing meat pies can be a health issue if they haven’t been thawed properly. Make sure to thaw meat pies in the refrigerator before reheating them, and avoid refreezing them once they’ve been cooked.
The Perfect Pork Pie Crust: Tips And Tricks
The perfect pork pie crust can make or break your pork pie. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure a delicious and flaky crust:
1. Use hot water crust pastry: Traditional pork pies use hot water crust pastry, which is made by boiling water and lard together before adding flour. This type of pastry is sturdy enough to hold the filling and jelly, but also has a flaky texture.
2. Chill the pastry: It’s important to chill the pastry before rolling it out. This makes it easier to handle and prevents it from shrinking in the oven. Wrap the pastry in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes before rolling.
3. Roll out the pastry evenly: Roll the pastry out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure to roll it out evenly so that the pie crust is consistent in thickness.
4. Use a pie mold: A pie mold will help you achieve the perfect shape for your pork pie. Line the mold with the pastry, leaving an overhang around the edges.
5. Add the filling and jelly: Fill the pie with your chopped, seasoned pork and add your strong stock which will set into a savory jelly. Make sure to leave some space at the top for the jelly to set.
6. Seal the pie: Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg and then fold over the overhang to seal the pie. Use a fork to crimp the edges and make sure there are no gaps.
7. Bake at the right temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake your pork pie for 45 minutes. If you notice that the edges are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a perfect pork pie crust that is both delicious and visually appealing.
What To Serve With Reheated Pork Pies
If you’ve decided to heat up your leftover pork pies, you may be wondering what to serve alongside them. One classic option is a simple green salad or buttery cabbage, which can provide a fresh contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the pie.
For a wine pairing, consider a well-made, terroir-driven Chardonnay or Pinot Noir. These wines have a grounded earthiness that can complement the hearty flavors of the pork pie. The Deux Montille Rully Chaponniere is a great example of a wine with floral, citrus, and pear aromas on the nose, but sappy, earthy, and textural notes on the palate.
If you’re looking for something more substantial to serve with your reheated pork pies, consider making bubble and squeak with leftover roast potatoes and sprouts. This classic British dish is made by frying up leftover vegetables with mashed potatoes until crispy and golden brown. It’s a perfect side dish for a warming and comforting meal.
Alternatively, you could serve your reheated pork pies with a judicious dab of mustard or chutney. Pickled onions are also a good option, but make sure to choose sweeter, smaller silverskin onions rather than overly acrid pickled onions.
Ultimately, the key is to choose sides and sauces that complement the pork pie without overwhelming its flavors. Whether you opt for a simple salad or a more substantial side dish, make sure to savor every bite of this comforting and delicious meal.
Can You Freeze Pork Pies? A Guide To Storing Leftovers.
If you find yourself with leftover pork pies, freezing them is a great way to ensure they don’t go to waste. The good news is that pork pies freeze well and can last for several months in the freezer. Here’s a guide to freezing your pork pies:
1. Triple wrap your pork pies: To best preserve their integrity, we recommend a triple wrapping process. Start by wrapping the pork pie in a simple layer of parchment or freezer paper. Then, wrap the pork pie in a layer of aluminum foil to seal it well and maintain the crust and jelly.
2. Store in an airtight container: Once your pork pies are wrapped, place them in an airtight container that is the appropriate size for the pie. Make sure the pie fits well in the container and that no part of the pie sticks to the edges of the container.
3. Label and date your container: It’s important to label and date your container so you know how long you’ve had it in the freezer.
4. Freeze for up to 4 months: Pork pies can be frozen for up to 4 months when stored properly.
When it comes time to eat your frozen pork pie, it’s important to defrost it correctly. You should take it out of the freezer and place it in the fridge overnight. You can also defrost it in the microwave on a low setting, but be sure to check it frequently to avoid overcooking.
Once defrosted, you can enjoy your pork pie at room temperature. If you choose to reheat it, be sure to follow the instructions above for reheating hot pies. With these tips, you can enjoy your leftover pork pies for months to come!
