Pork pies are a classic British snack that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you’re having a picnic, a lunchtime snack, or a quick bite on the go, pork pies are a delicious and satisfying option.
But what should you serve with them? The options are endless, from pickles and condiments to hot and cold sides. In this article, we’ll explore the best side dishes to serve with pork pie and provide some tasty ideas to help you elevate your pork pie experience.
So, grab a fork and let’s dig in!
What To Serve With Pork Pie?
When it comes to serving pork pie, there are a variety of options to choose from. The most popular accompaniments include pickles, condiments, hot and cold sides. Let’s take a closer look at each of these options.
Pickles And Condiments
Pickles and condiments are a classic choice when it comes to serving pork pie. According to a recent survey, over 60% of people who eat pork pies prefer at least one side of pickles or condiments. Some of the most popular options include brown sauce, Branston Pickle, and Henderson’s Relish. These simple accompaniments can add a burst of flavor to the savory pork pie.
Interestingly, the survey also found that there were variations in regional preferences for pickles and condiments. For example, residents in the North of England were most likely to pair their pork pies with hot sides, while those in the East preferred pickles and Ploughman’s lunches. Londoners were more likely to choose condiments, particularly mustard.
Age also played a role in preference, with younger people more likely to choose hot sides and older generations preferring pickles. In Wales, pickles were the preferred choice for 24% of those who ate pork pies, while in Scotland, 40% of people who ate pork pies and preferred at least one side chose brown sauce.
When it comes to choosing pickles and condiments for pork pie, it’s important to find a balance between sharpness and sweetness. Mustard, chutney (as long as it’s not overly sweet), and apple sauce are all great choices. Pickled onions can also work well, as long as they’re sweeter and smaller silverskin onions rather than acrid pickled onions that can overwhelm the palate.
Ultimately, when serving pork pie with pickles and condiments, it’s important to remember that the pie should be the dominant flavor. The sides and sauces should simply add a burst of flavor at the edges without overpowering the savory goodness of the pork pie.
Hot Sides
If you’re looking for a side dish that will fill you up and satisfy your cravings, hot sides are the way to go. There are a variety of options when it comes to hot sides that pair well with pork pie.
One classic option is roasted potatoes. These can be seasoned with herbs and spices to add extra flavor and texture. Another popular choice is baked beans, which add a touch of sweetness to the meal. For those who love chips, beer-battered chips are a great option that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of pork pie.
Another option for chip lovers are sweet potato fries. These fries have a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, and their sweetness complements the savory taste of the pork pie. Mashed potatoes are also a classic side dish that pairs well with pork pie. The soft, fluffy texture of the mashed potatoes is perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy from the pie.
When it comes to serving hot sides with pork pie, it’s important to choose dishes that complement the flavors of the pie without overpowering them. The above options are all great choices that will enhance your dining experience and leave you feeling satisfied.
Cold Sides
If you’re looking for a refreshing and light side to serve with your pork pie, consider opting for a cold side. A crisp, fresh salad is always a great option. You could try a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, or get more creative with a cucumber and tomato salad or a coleslaw. Another option is to serve a chilled vegetable platter with hummus or ranch dip. This will add some color and texture to your meal, while also providing some health benefits.
If you want to add some carbs to your meal, consider serving a cold pasta salad. This can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and Italian dressing. Alternatively, you could serve a potato salad or a quinoa salad. Both of these options are filling and satisfying, while also being light enough to complement the pork pie.
Finally, if you want to keep things simple, you could always serve some sliced fresh fruit as a side dish. This will add some sweetness to your meal and provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the pork pie. Some good options include watermelon, pineapple, and berries.
Salad Options
If you’re looking for a fresh and healthy option to serve alongside pork pie, a salad can be a great choice. There are many different types of salads that can complement the flavors of pork pie, and here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Spinach Salad with Mandarin Oranges and Nuts: This salad combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the crunch of nuts and the earthiness of spinach. The combination of flavors and textures is a great contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the pork pie.
2. Ruby and Jade Salad: This salad is made with mixed lettuce, cucumber, red beets, and bell pepper. The tangy, sweet, and salty dressing made with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt perfectly complements the savory flavors of the pork pie.
3. Waldorf Salad: This classic salad is made with apples, celery, walnuts, and mayonnaise. The crunchiness of the apples and celery pairs well with the tender meat filling of the pork pie.
4. Beet and Apple Salad: This salad combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the tartness of apples. The creamy mayonnaise dressing adds richness to the dish.
5. Blue Cheese Chopped Salad: This salad is made with mixed greens, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and crumbled blue cheese. The pungent flavor of blue cheese pairs well with the savory flavors of pork pie.
These salads can be served as a side dish or as a main course for a lighter meal. They are also easy to prepare ahead of time, making them a great option for entertaining guests or for a quick weeknight dinner.
Beverage Pairings
When it comes to beverage pairings for pork pie, the traditional choice is a pint of bitter. However, wine can be equally as delicious when paired with this classic dish. Pork pies, with their rich slow-cooked meat, herbs, and spices, work well with wines of reasonably high acidity as they help to cut through the fattiness.
White wines are particularly well-suited for pairing with pork pie. Riesling is a great option as its high acidity and fruity notes complement the savory flavors of the pie. Western Australia Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc is another great choice, with its crisp and refreshing taste that cuts through the richness of the pork. Oaked Chardonnay is also a good option, as its buttery and creamy notes complement the meaty flavors of the pie. Finally, Viognier is a great choice for those who prefer a more aromatic wine, as its floral and fruity notes pair well with the savory flavors of the pork.
Ultimately, the choice of beverage pairing for pork pie comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer a traditional pint of bitter or a refreshing glass of white wine, there is no wrong answer when it comes to pairing beverages with this classic dish.
