Pie and mash first started being offered by street traders in the 1800's. They would make their pies fresh each morning and the walk the streets of London selling their pies from trays. The more successful sellers then progressed to having a pie and mash restaurant or shop where customers could sit at a table while they eat their meal.
Visiting a pie and mash shop is still the main way that people enjoy this very traditional London dish. But what can you do if there are no shops nearby? How else can you grab a taste of history with lashings of pepper and vinegar?
Make it yourself
The essence of a pie and mash meal is simplicity itself. A meat pie and mashed potato is all that is required plus some liquor or gravy to go with it. However, if you want the full experience then the pastry has to be just right, crispy on the top with a soft underside. Most people can organise the mash, just use good quality mashing potato's such as a Maris Piper and season with salt and nothing else. The liquor is a closely guarded secret recipe that no shop will divulge. So unless you have some inside knowledge, making it yourself is not going to get the taste buds going too much.
Collect it
If you live close enough you can pop in to a shop and buy some items to takeaway and reheat at home. This will offer the best option for convenience, cost and taste.
Buy it frozen from a supermarket
This tends to be a mass produced low quality item where the mash, pie and liquor are all frozen in a plastic tray to be reheated. To be avoided if you like good food.
Order it online
Welcome to the online revolution! You can order real pie and mash online which will be delivered to your home. Now, don't get this confused with ordering your pizza. It's not designed to turn up piping hot in 45 minutes or less. When you order pie and mash online it will be delivered in a few days time and will have been pre-cooked and chilled. You should have the option to include mashed potato and liquor or gravy with your pies. Some shops will also offer a veggie pie alternative. You can then store the food in a fridge or freezer for when you want to reheat it. Follow the instructions carefully and voila, traditional pie mash and liquor in the comfort of your own home.
About this Author
Sean Horton is a Director of Goddard's Pies Limited who have been making pie and mash since 1890.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sean_R_Horton
