Are you a fan of pork pies but unsure of the best way to heat them up?
Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore the various methods for reheating pork pies and provide tips for achieving the perfect crust and filling.
From oven to microwave, we’ll cover it all. So, whether you’re a traditionalist who prefers their pork pie cold or someone who likes it hot and crispy, read on to discover the best way to heat up this classic British snack.
How To Heat A Pork Pie?
There are several ways to heat up a pork pie, but the method you choose will depend on your personal preference and the equipment you have available.
One popular method is to heat the pork pie in the oven. Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4 and place the pie on a baking tray. Cover the pie with foil to prevent the top from burning and place it in the oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until it’s piping hot. Allow the pie to stand for a few minutes before serving.
If you’re short on time, you can also use a microwave to reheat your pork pie. However, this method is not recommended as it can result in a soggy or chewy crust. To reheat a slice of pie, place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 15-second increments until it reaches your desired temperature. For larger amounts of pie, heat it at 50% power for 2-4 minutes, depending on size.
Another option is to partially heat the pork pie in the microwave and finish it off in the oven. This method can help achieve a crispy crust while still heating up the filling. Start by heating the pie in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until the interior is heated through, then transfer it to a preheated oven at 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4 for an additional 5-10 minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy.
Why Heat Up A Pork Pie?
While pork pies are traditionally served at room temperature or cold, there are some reasons why you might want to heat one up. For one, a hot pork pie can be a comforting and satisfying meal, especially during the colder months. Additionally, heating up a pork pie can help bring out the flavors of the filling and make the pastry crust even more delicious.
In certain regions of England, such as Yorkshire, hot pork pies are a popular choice and are often served as a replacement for turkey during Christmas dinner. Some manufacturers even sell pork pies specifically recommended for reheating. However, it’s important to note that reheating a pork pie can also result in the jelly inside melting and leaking out, which may not be appealing to everyone. Ultimately, whether or not to heat up a pork pie is a matter of personal preference.
The Best Method For Reheating In The Oven
The oven is the preferred method for reheating pork pies as it evenly warms up the pie while preserving the texture of the filling and pastry. To reheat a pork pie in the oven, preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4 and place the pie on a baking tray. Cover the pie with foil to prevent the top from burning and place it in the oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until it’s piping hot. This method ensures that your pork pie is heated all the way through and has a crispy crust. It’s important to allow the pie to stand for a few minutes before serving to let it cool down slightly and avoid burning your mouth.
How To Reheat A Pork Pie In The Microwave
While reheating a pork pie in the microwave is not the preferred method, it can still be done if you’re short on time. However, keep in mind that the crust may not turn out as crispy as it would if reheated in the oven or air fryer.
To reheat a 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 find that you’re nearing your desired temperature, decrease the time to 10-second increments to avoid overcooking. Be sure to check the temperature after every 10 seconds to ensure that the pie is not overheated.
If you need to reheat a larger amount of pie, place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat it at 50% power for 2-4 minutes, depending on size. However, it is not recommended to reheat a whole pork pie in the microwave, as it is likely to heat unevenly and leave you with cold spots.
Remember to always remove any foil before microwaving your pork pie, and allow it to stand for a few minutes before serving. While reheating in the microwave may not produce the best results, it’s still a quick and easy option for those who are short on time.
Tips For Achieving A Perfectly Crispy Crust
If you want to achieve a perfectly crispy crust when heating up your pork pie, there are a few tips to keep in mind.
Firstly, avoid using a microwave as it can result in a soggy or chewy crust. Instead, use an oven or a combination of microwave and oven.
When heating up your pie in the oven, make sure to cover it with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent the top from burning. Then remove the foil and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until it’s piping hot and golden brown.
To achieve an even crispier crust, you can brush the top of the pie with an egg wash before placing it in the oven. This will give it a lovely sheen and help ensure even browning on the surface of the pie.
Another important factor is to keep everything cold while making the dough. Chill your butter or lard well before starting and make sure they are below 40°F (4°C) when you add them to the flour. You might even chill your flour for an hour or more before you begin. This will cut down on the formation of gluten, which acts to toughen the crust and make it chewier.
It’s also important not to over mix the dough as this can cause the gluten to develop and result in a tough crust. Use temperature sense when cooking the pie by starting it in a very hot oven (425°F [218°C]) to flash-evaporate the water in the butter and crust. This will create separation between the layers, yielding a crisp, flaky crust.
Finally, once your pork pie has finished cooking, let it cool slightly before serving. This will allow the filling to set and make it easier to cut into neat slices without losing any of that delicious filling.
Serving Suggestions For Your Heated Pork Pie
Once your pork pie is heated to perfection, it’s time to think about serving suggestions. While a pork pie can be enjoyed on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate it into a delicious and filling meal.
One classic pairing is with pickles or relish. Whether it’s Branston Pickle, Hendersons Relish, or a simple pickled onion, the tangy and acidic flavors of the pickles can cut through the richness of the pork pie filling and add some texture to each bite.
If you prefer something hot, consider serving your pork pie with a side of gravy. The warm and savory sauce can complement the meaty flavors of the pie and add some moisture to each bite. Alternatively, you can serve it with baked beans or mashed potatoes for a hearty and comforting meal.
For a lighter option, pair your pork pie with a crisp salad. The fresh greens can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the pie. You can also try serving it with coleslaw or roasted vegetables for some added crunch and texture.
No matter what you choose to serve with your heated pork pie, make sure to enjoy it while it’s still warm and crispy. And don’t forget to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pairing!
