Pork pie. The very words conjure images of rustic pubs, comforting picnics, and hearty gatherings. But while this savory treat is undeniably delicious on its own, finding the perfect accompaniments can elevate the entire experience. This comprehensive guide will explore a wide array of options, from classic pairings to innovative culinary adventures, ensuring your next pork pie adventure is a resounding success. We’ll delve into flavors, textures, and even consider the occasion to help you create the ideal spread.
Classic Condiments and Pickles: A Time-Honored Tradition
Let’s start with the tried and true. For generations, certain condiments have been synonymous with pork pie, providing a tangy counterpoint to the rich, savory filling. These are the cornerstone of many a pork pie feast, and for good reason.
The Ubiquitous Brown Sauce
Few things complement a slice of pork pie quite like a dollop of brown sauce. Its tangy, fruity, and slightly spicy profile cuts through the richness of the meat and pastry, creating a harmonious balance. Brands like HP and Daddies are popular choices, but exploring artisanal brown sauces can uncover exciting new flavor dimensions. Look for variations with added ingredients like dates, tamarind, or chili for an extra kick. The acidity is key, acting as a palate cleanser between bites.
Pickled Onions: A Sharp and Sweet Contrast
Pickled onions offer a delightful sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of the pork pie. Their crunchy texture adds another layer of interest, preventing the experience from becoming monotonous. Choose small, silver-skin onions for the best bite. Some prefer a traditional vinegar brine, while others enjoy sweeter variations with a hint of sugar. The sweetness helps balance the vinegar’s bite and complements the pork beautifully.
Piccalilli: A Burst of Tangy Vegetables
For those who enjoy a more complex flavor profile, piccalilli is an excellent choice. This vibrant relish, packed with pickled vegetables like cauliflower, gherkins, and mustard, offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Its tangy, slightly spicy, and subtly sweet notes complement the richness of the pork, adding a burst of freshness to each bite. The mustard in piccalilli, in particular, provides a pleasing warmth.
Mustard: A Zesty Kick
A good English mustard, with its fiery heat and distinctive flavor, is a classic pairing for pork pie. Its pungent notes cut through the richness of the meat, adding a zesty kick that awakens the palate. Opt for a traditional Colman’s mustard for a bold flavor, or explore milder Dijon mustards for a more subtle tang. Experiment with different mustard varieties to find your personal favorite.
Salads and Sides: Balancing Richness with Freshness
While condiments provide a concentrated burst of flavor, salads and sides offer a more substantial counterpoint to the richness of the pork pie. They provide textural contrast and contribute to a more balanced and satisfying meal.
A Simple Green Salad: Light and Refreshing
Sometimes, the best accompaniment is the simplest. A fresh green salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette, provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pork pie. Opt for a mix of leafy greens, such as lettuce, spinach, and arugula, for a variety of textures and flavors. The vinaigrette should be acidic and bright, helping to cleanse the palate between bites.
Coleslaw: Creamy and Crunchy
Coleslaw, with its creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables, offers a delightful textural and flavor contrast to the pork pie. The sweetness of the cabbage and carrots balances the savory notes of the meat, while the creamy dressing adds a touch of indulgence. Experiment with different variations of coleslaw, such as those with added fruits or nuts, to find your perfect match. The key is to ensure the coleslaw isn’t too heavy or overly sweet.
Potato Salad: A Hearty Addition
For a more substantial side dish, consider potato salad. Its creamy texture and comforting flavors complement the pork pie beautifully. Choose a recipe that incorporates tangy ingredients, such as vinegar or mustard, to cut through the richness. Adding diced pickles or celery can also enhance the texture and flavor. A classic potato salad with mayonnaise, mustard, and herbs is a safe bet.
Apple Sauce: A Sweet and Tangy Surprise
While less common than other accompaniments, apple sauce can be a surprisingly delightful pairing with pork pie. The sweetness of the apples balances the savory notes of the meat, while the tartness provides a refreshing contrast. Choose a chunky apple sauce with a touch of cinnamon for added warmth. This combination is particularly appealing during the autumn and winter months.
Cheeses and Charcuterie: Elevating the Experience
For a more sophisticated and indulgent spread, consider adding cheeses and charcuterie to the mix. These offer a range of flavors and textures that complement the pork pie beautifully, creating a truly memorable culinary experience.
Sharp Cheddar: A Classic Combination
A sharp cheddar cheese is a natural pairing for pork pie. Its tangy, slightly salty flavor complements the savory notes of the meat, while its firm texture provides a satisfying contrast to the flaky pastry. Choose a mature cheddar for the most intense flavor. The sharpness cuts through the richness of the pork, preventing it from becoming overwhelming.
Stilton: A Bold and Creamy Choice
For those who enjoy a bolder flavor, Stilton cheese is an excellent choice. Its creamy texture and pungent, slightly salty flavor complement the pork pie beautifully. The blue cheese adds a touch of sophistication to the meal. The strong flavor of Stilton is best enjoyed in small quantities.
Pickled Gherkins: Tangy and Crunchy
Similar to pickled onions, pickled gherkins provide a tangy and crunchy counterpoint to the richness of the pork pie. Their slightly sour flavor cuts through the meat, cleansing the palate and preparing it for the next bite. Choose small, crunchy gherkins for the best texture. They offer a refreshing burst of acidity.
Cured Meats: Adding Depth and Complexity
A selection of cured meats, such as salami, prosciutto, or chorizo, can add depth and complexity to your pork pie spread. Their salty, savory flavors complement the pork pie beautifully, while their varied textures provide a delightful sensory experience. Arrange the meats artfully on a platter to create a visually appealing presentation. Be mindful of the salt content of the cured meats and adjust other elements of the meal accordingly.
Bread and Crackers: The Perfect Vehicle
Don’t forget the bread and crackers! These provide a neutral base for enjoying the pork pie and its accompaniments.
Crusty Bread: A Hearty Companion
A crusty loaf of bread, such as sourdough or baguette, is a perfect companion for pork pie. Its firm texture and slightly tangy flavor complement the savory notes of the meat. Use the bread to mop up any juices or spread with your favorite condiments. A rustic, artisanal bread adds a touch of elegance to the meal.
Water Crackers: A Simple and Versatile Choice
Water crackers are a simple and versatile choice for serving with pork pie. Their neutral flavor allows the flavors of the pork pie and its accompaniments to shine through. They also provide a satisfying crunch. Choose plain water crackers for the best results.
Drinks: Quenching Your Thirst
No meal is complete without a beverage. The right drink can enhance the flavors of the pork pie and its accompaniments, creating a truly memorable dining experience.
Real Ale: A Traditional Pairing
A traditional real ale is a classic pairing for pork pie. Its malty flavors and slightly bitter finish complement the savory notes of the meat. Choose a bitter or pale ale for the best results. The bitterness cuts through the richness of the pork, while the malty flavors add depth and complexity.
Cider: A Refreshing Alternative
For those who prefer a lighter option, cider is a refreshing alternative to real ale. Its crisp, fruity flavors complement the pork pie beautifully. Choose a dry cider for the best results. The acidity of the cider helps to cleanse the palate.
Red Wine: A Sophisticated Choice
A light-bodied red wine, such as Beaujolais or Pinot Noir, can also be a surprisingly good pairing for pork pie. Its fruity flavors and subtle tannins complement the savory notes of the meat without overpowering it. Serve the wine slightly chilled. The fruit-forward notes of the wine enhance the flavors of the pork.
Non-Alcoholic Options
For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, consider sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime, or a refreshing iced tea. These options provide a light and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pork pie. Elderflower cordial diluted with sparkling water is another excellent choice.
Seasonal Considerations: Adapting to the Time of Year
The best accompaniments for pork pie can also depend on the season. Consider the time of year when planning your meal.
Summer: Light and Refreshing
During the summer months, opt for light and refreshing accompaniments, such as salads, coleslaw, and pickled vegetables. These provide a welcome contrast to the heat and complement the savory flavors of the pork pie without being too heavy. Fresh fruit, such as berries or melon, can also be a refreshing addition to the meal.
Winter: Hearty and Warming
During the winter months, choose hearty and warming accompaniments, such as potato salad, apple sauce, and cured meats. These provide comfort and sustenance during the colder weather. Spiced chutneys and pickled onions can also add a touch of warmth and flavor to the meal.
The Occasion: Tailoring Your Spread
The occasion for which you are serving pork pie should also influence your choice of accompaniments. A casual picnic calls for different pairings than a formal dinner party.
Picnics: Simple and Portable
For picnics, choose simple and portable accompaniments that are easy to transport and eat outdoors. Condiments, such as brown sauce and mustard, are ideal, as are pre-made salads and crusty bread. Pack everything in reusable containers to minimize waste.
Formal Gatherings: Elegant and Sophisticated
For formal gatherings, opt for more elegant and sophisticated accompaniments, such as cheeses, charcuterie, and fine wines. Arrange the food artfully on platters to create a visually appealing presentation. Consider serving the pork pie warm with a selection of gourmet condiments.
In conclusion, the possibilities for what to serve with pork pie are endless. By considering the flavors, textures, and occasion, you can create a truly memorable culinary experience. From classic condiments to innovative sides, the perfect accompaniments are waiting to be discovered. Enjoy your pork pie adventure!
What are some classic condiments that pair well with pork pie?
Pork pie’s savory richness benefits from acidic and sharp accompaniments. Think classic English mustards like Colman’s or a good Dijon. Branston pickle, with its sweet and tangy chunks, is another popular choice, cutting through the richness beautifully. Consider also a quality piccalilli, its vibrant vegetable mix offering a delightful textural contrast.
Another excellent choice is a good chutney, particularly apple or onion. These offer a sweet and savory balance that complements the pork. For those who prefer something simpler, a dollop of homemade or good quality shop-bought apple sauce can also be surprisingly effective. Each of these condiments adds a layer of complexity to the overall flavour profile of the pork pie experience.
Can I serve a salad with pork pie, and if so, what kind?
Absolutely! A salad provides a welcome counterpoint to the richness of pork pie. Opt for a salad with a good balance of flavors and textures, something that can stand up to the pie without being overwhelmed. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a safe bet, offering freshness and acidity.
However, don’t be afraid to be a bit more adventurous. A salad with bitter greens like arugula (rocket) or endive can work wonderfully, especially if paired with a sweet element like dried cranberries or candied pecans. A potato salad, particularly one with a mustard dressing, also complements pork pie well. The key is to ensure the salad is well-dressed and offers a contrasting texture and flavour.
What vegetables are traditionally served with pork pie?
Pickled vegetables are a classic accompaniment to pork pie, providing a sharp and tangy contrast. Think pickled onions, gherkins, or even beetroot. These offer a satisfying crunch and cut through the richness of the meat, cleansing the palate between bites. They are a simple yet effective pairing.
Beyond pickled vegetables, consider something fresh and green. A simple side of peas or broad beans works well, adding a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Alternatively, a side of steamed asparagus or green beans with a squeeze of lemon juice can provide a sophisticated counterpoint to the pie’s heartiness. The goal is to offer a light and refreshing element to balance the heavier pie.
Are there any fruits that pair well with pork pie?
The sweetness and acidity of certain fruits can balance the richness of pork pie beautifully. Apple slices, especially a tart variety like Granny Smith, offer a refreshing crunch and complement the savory flavors. Similarly, a few segments of orange or grapefruit can provide a zesty counterpoint.
Another excellent choice is grapes, both green and red. Their sweetness and slight acidity pair well with the pork and pastry. Consider serving a small bowl of mixed berries alongside the pie for a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor. These fruits offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience.
What type of bread or crackers should I serve with pork pie?
The choice of bread or crackers depends on the overall presentation and desired level of formality. For a casual meal, a crusty loaf of bread, such as sourdough or a baguette, is a great choice. The rustic texture and hearty flavor of the bread complement the savory pie. This allows for mopping up any juices or enjoying the pie in smaller bites.
For a more refined presentation, consider serving water crackers or oatcakes. These offer a neutral flavor and a delicate texture that doesn’t overpower the pie. Alternatively, some crusty breadsticks can provide a textural contrast and a satisfying crunch. The key is to choose something that doesn’t compete with the flavors of the pie but rather enhances the overall experience.
What drinks pair well with pork pie?
A classic pairing for pork pie is a good quality English ale or bitter. The hoppy bitterness cuts through the richness of the pork and pastry, cleansing the palate between bites. The malty notes of the ale also complement the savory flavors of the pie. Consider something like a pale ale or a brown ale.
Alternatively, a crisp dry cider is another excellent choice. The acidity of the cider helps to balance the richness of the pie, while its fruity notes add a refreshing element. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple juice or a glass of lemonade can also be surprisingly effective. The key is to choose a drink that is refreshing and slightly acidic to complement the savory flavors of the pork pie.
Can I serve pork pie as part of a larger picnic or buffet?
Pork pie is an excellent addition to a picnic or buffet spread due to its portability and satisfying nature. It’s easily transportable and requires no heating, making it a convenient option. Cut it into wedges or slices for easy serving and arrange it alongside other picnic staples like sandwiches, salads, and cheeses.
Consider serving a variety of accompaniments, such as pickles, chutneys, and crackers, to allow guests to customize their experience. Pork pie can also be paired with other traditional picnic foods, such as sausage rolls or scotch eggs, to create a cohesive and satisfying spread. Its robust flavor and satisfying texture make it a popular choice for any outdoor gathering.