The history of pie and mash goes back a long way and it's still a popular dish even though it can be hard to track down a local pie and mash shop. Die hard fans will always find a way. Each person has their own way of enjoying their pie and mash meal and these are just some of the things to look out for:
Upside down pies - For many the only way to eat a pie is upside down. For these people this is the perfect way to enjoy the softer bottom pastry first before going deeper and eating the crispier puff pastry that adorns the top of the pie. This also allows them to make a hole in the pie and to add lots of vinegar which will stay in the pie casing.
Liquor and lots of it - There really is no discussing this one. Liquor is the traditional accompaniment and there is no alternative. Lovely green liquor gravy and lots of it please. And no it is not alcoholic.
Knife or spoon - Your pie and mash lover will almost certainly want to eat their favourite meal with a fork and spoon. For them a knife is simply unnecessary. The spoon is more than adequate in breaking open their freshly baked pie and is used to eat the minced beef filling as well as scooping up all that lovely liquor!
Vinegar, vinegar, vinegar - It just adds something extra to the meal. If you have never tried vinegar then give it a go the next time you visit a pie shop. If you are lucky you can also try some home made chilli vinegar for that extra bit of spice!
These are some of the basics things to spot. Of course, no list would be complete without the basic meal choice of a 'double double'. This being 2 pies, 2 lots of mash and lots of liquor. Lets add salt and chilli vinegar to experience the really traditional pie and mash taste!
About this Author
Sean Horton is a Director of Goddard's Pies Limited who have been making pie and mash since 1890.
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