Medieval Meat Pie

Medieval Meat Pie Recipe from England - Beef, Cheese, Currants, and More!

Region / culture: England | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes to 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Medieval Meat Pie is a hearty and flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This recipe combines tender sirloin steak with a blend of spices, cheese, and dried fruit, all encased in a flaky pie shell. Whether served hot or cold, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a taste of history.

History

Meat pies have been a staple in medieval cuisine for centuries. They were often enjoyed by nobility and commoners alike, as they provided a convenient and portable way to enjoy a hearty meal. The combination of meat, spices, and fruits in this recipe reflects the flavors of the Middle Ages, when sweet and savory dishes were often combined in unexpected ways.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of beef (can use beef, pork, rabbit, venison, etc. - just a total of 1.5 lb (680 g). However, sirloin steak works best).
1 cup of grated cheese
0.5 cup of currants or raisins (or any other dried fruit)
4 egg yolks
0.5 tsp of ground cardamom
1 tsp of cinnamon
0.5 tsp of nutmeg
0.5 tsp of bell peppers
0.5 - 1 cup of broth (use whichever is most of the meat)
1 dash of cooking wine
1 x 9 inches pie shell (with lid)

How to prepare

Broil the meat until it is cooked through, but still very rare.
Cut the meat into small cubes.
Mix the meat with all other ingredients, except for the pie shell.
For the broth, add just enough to make the mixture slightly wetter.
Put the mixture into the pie shell.
Ensure that the lid of the shell is sealed and use a knife to create some holes on the top.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the shell turns golden brown.
This recipe makes 6 – 8 slices and can be served at any temperature.

Variations

Substitute the sirloin steak with chicken or pork for a different flavor.
Add additional spices such as cloves or ginger for a more complex taste.
Experiment with different types of cheese or dried fruits to customize the recipe to your liking.

Notes

It is easiest to cut when cold.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to broil the meat until it is just cooked through, as it will continue to cook in the pie.

- Mixing the meat with the other ingredients while still warm will help the flavors meld together.

- Make sure to seal the pie shell tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.

- Creating holes in the top of the pie shell will allow steam to escape and prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Medieval Meat Pie can be served as a main dish with a side of vegetables or a salad. It can also be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Cooking Techniques

Broiling the meat before adding it to the pie ensures that it is cooked through and tender.

- Mixing the warm meat with the other ingredients helps to distribute the flavors evenly.

- Baking the pie at a moderate temperature allows the flavors to meld together without burning the crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground beef or lamb instead of sirloin steak.

- Replace the dried fruit with fresh fruit such as apples or pears.

- Substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Medieval Meat Pie can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Medieval Meat Pie on a decorative platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or a sprinkle of additional spices. Cut the pie into neat slices for a polished presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Medieval Meat Pie with a glass of red wine or a hearty ale for a truly medieval dining experience. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Medieval Meat Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through, or enjoy cold as a quick and satisfying snack.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Medieval Meat Pie contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Medieval Meat Pie contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Medieval Meat Pie contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Medieval Meat Pie contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Medieval Meat Pie is a good source of iron, vitamin A, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Medieval Meat Pie is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Medieval Meat Pie is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of the Middle Ages to your table. With a blend of tender meat, savory spices, and sweet fruits, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for history buffs and food lovers alike.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Medieval Meat Pie. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through some old cookbooks that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, a faded and delicate piece of parchment fell out from between the pages. Curious, I picked it up and read the elegant script written in flowing cursive.

The recipe detailed the ingredients and instructions for creating a hearty and savory meat pie that had been enjoyed by nobles and peasants alike during the medieval times. The combination of beef, pork, and spices sounded rich and flavorful, and I knew I had to try my hand at recreating this ancient dish.

I could almost imagine the hustle and bustle of a bustling medieval kitchen as I gathered the ingredients and prepared to make the pie. The aroma of the spices filled the air as I mixed the meat and seasonings together, the anticipation building with each passing moment.

As the pie baked in the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the past. I imagined the medieval cooks carefully tending to their creations, using simple ingredients to create delicious meals for their families and lords.

When the pie was finally ready, I eagerly cut into it and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, a perfect balance of savory meat and aromatic spices. I could almost picture myself sitting at a long wooden table, surrounded by knights and ladies, enjoying this delicious dish together.

From that moment on, the Medieval Meat Pie became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I would make it for special occasions, sharing the recipe with friends and family who were equally enamored with its rich history and delicious taste.

Over the years, I have continued to hone my skills as a cook, learning new recipes and techniques from a variety of sources. But there is something special about that ancient recipe, passed down through generations and steeped in history.

As I sit here now, recalling that fateful day when I discovered the recipe for Medieval Meat Pie, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary journey that has brought me to this point. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to connect with the past and create memories for the future.

And so, I will continue to cook and bake, exploring new flavors and traditions while always holding onto that ancient recipe that first sparked my love for the culinary arts. For me, food is more than just sustenance - it is a way to preserve history, share stories, and connect with others in a meaningful and delicious way.