Pork pies are a delicious and savory treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or a meal. But how long do they last in the fridge?
It’s important to know the answer to this question to ensure that you’re not consuming spoiled food. In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of pork pies in the fridge and freezer, as well as provide tips on how to properly store them.
So, grab a cup of tea and let’s dive into the world of pork pies!
How Long Do Pork Pies Last In The Fridge?
Once you’ve purchased or made your pork pies, it’s important to store them properly to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat. When stored in the fridge, pork pies can last up to 5 days. However, it’s important to note that the pastry may start to go soft after a couple of days, especially if using a water pastry.
To extend the shelf life of your pork pies, consider freezing them. Pork pies can be stored in the freezer for up to 4 months when wrapped properly. We recommend a triple wrapping process for your pork pies to best preserve their integrity. Start by wrapping the pork pie in a simple layer of parchment or freezer paper. Once you have the first wrapping layer, wrap the pork pies in a layer of aluminum foil to seal them well and maintain the crust and jelly well.
What Are Pork Pies?
Pork pies are a traditional English meat pie that is usually served either at room temperature or cold. They consist of a filling of roughly chopped pork and pork fat, surrounded by a layer of jellied pork stock in a hot water crust pastry. This type of pie is different from a savory pot pie that Americans might be accustomed to, in that it is usually served cold or at room temperature and eaten as a snack. The filling consists of roughly chopped pork and pork fat, surrounded by a layer of jellied pork stock in a hot water crust pastry. The pies are typically made using hot water pastry which is then raised by hand using a mold or a jam jar for support. Pork pies are simple but delicious, and they are often served as a snack or with a salad. They are also a popular Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve treat in some parts of the world. Melton Mowbray versions, with their bowed, hand-raised sides, well-seasoned aspic, and gray pork center (thanks to the use of raw, uncured meat), are so iconic that they’ve achieved protected geographical status, putting them up there with Champagne and Parma ham.
How To Store Pork Pies Properly
To store pork pies properly, follow these simple steps:
1. Keep them in the refrigerator: If you plan on eating your pork pies within 5 days, store them in the fridge. Wrap them in parchment paper and place them into a sealed container to keep them fresh.
2. Freeze them: If you want to keep your pork pies for longer than 5 days, consider freezing them. Pork pies can be stored in the freezer for up to 4 months when wrapped properly. We recommend a triple wrapping process for your pork pies to best preserve their integrity. Start by wrapping the pork pie in a simple layer of parchment or freezer paper. Once you have the first wrapping layer, wrap the pork pies in a layer of aluminum foil to seal them well and maintain the crust and jelly well.
3. Follow proper freezing and thawing techniques: When freezing your pork pies, make sure to freeze them as soon as possible after making or purchasing. Follow any instructions on the packaging as some shop-bought pork pies are not suitable for home freezing. When defrosting your pork pies, put them in the freezer in a plastic bag or box and leave them in the plastic bag or box whilst you defrost them to protect them from condensation.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your pork pies stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Can You Freeze Pork Pies?
Yes, you can freeze pork pies for up to 4 months if they are wrapped properly. Freezing pork pies is a great way to extend their shelf life and ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat. When well wrapped and frozen correctly, pork pies will last up to 4 months in the freezer.
To freeze your pork pies, we recommend a triple wrapping process to best preserve their integrity. Start by wrapping the pork pie in a simple layer of parchment or freezer paper. Once you have the first wrapping layer, wrap the pork pies in a layer of aluminum foil to seal them well and maintain the crust and jelly well. Finally, place the wrapped pork pies in an airtight container or plastic bag and store them in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat your frozen pork pie, make sure to defrost it completely before eating. We recommend leaving the pie(s) in the plastic bag or box whilst you defrost them to protect them from condensation that can make the pastry soggy. Once it’s nicely up to fridge or room temperature, you can take it out of the bag – it won’t be a condensation magnet anymore!
How To Reheat Pork Pies
When it comes to reheating pork pies, there are several methods you can use depending on your preferences and available resources. While some people prefer to use a microwave for convenience, others argue that using an oven or toaster oven is the best way to preserve the texture and flavor of the pastry.
If you choose to reheat your pork pie in the oven, preheat it to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4. Place the pie on a baking tray and cover it with foil to prevent the top from burning. Heat the pie in the oven for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until it’s piping hot. Allow the pie to stand for a few minutes before serving.
If you’re using a toaster oven, set it to 250°F and heat the pork pie for a few minutes until it’s hot. Be careful not to overcook larger pies as this can cause the crust to become hard and less flaky.
While it is possible to reheat pork pies in a microwave, this method is not recommended as it can make the pastry soggy or chewy. However, if you’re short on time or only reheating a single slice of pie, place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 15-second increments until it reaches your desired temperature. If you’re reheating a larger amount of pie, heat it at 50% power for 2-4 minutes depending on its size.
Signs Of Spoiled Pork Pies
It’s important to be able to recognize the signs of spoiled pork pies to avoid any potential health risks. One of the first indicators of spoiled pork pies is a bad odor. If the pork pie emits a strong sulfur-like smell or any other unpleasant odor, it’s best to discard it immediately.
Another sign of spoiled pork pies is a slimy texture. If the surface of the pie feels sticky or slimy, it’s an indication that it has started to go bad. You can also perform a sniff test by warming up the pie and checking for any unusual smells.
Changes in color or dark spots on the surface of the pork pie are also clear indicators that it needs to be thrown away. If you notice any off-colors or discoloration, avoid cooking or consuming it.
Mold growth on the surface of the pork pie is another clear sign that it needs to be discarded immediately. Mold growth can occur due to poor storage conditions and can lead to potential health risks if consumed.
It’s important to note that if you’ve left your pork pies out at room temperature for more than two hours, they may be contaminated with toxin-releasing bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. Symptoms of food poisoning caused by such bacteria include vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea.
