Mincemeat Pie
Mincemeat Pie is a traditional dessert that features a sweet filling made from a mixture called mincemeat, which typically includes chopped dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, and apples), spices (like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves), sugar and often a splash of spirits like brandy or rum. Many cooks find it easier to purchase jarred mincemeat, and I fall into this category!
The history of Mincemeat Pie…
Mincemeat, in its earliest form, originated in the Middle Ages. The concept was to preserve meat by chopping it finely and mixing it with spices, dried fruits, and other ingredients. These early concoctions were often used as a method to store meat through long winters.
By the 14th and 15th centuries, mincemeat became more refined in England. It was common to include chopped meat (often beef or mutton) combined with dried fruits, spices, and wine or vinegar, creating a rich, preserved filling. These pies were popular during festive seasons and often served at celebrations.
During the Renaissance, mincemeat pies became even more elaborate, with added sugar and sweet ingredients becoming more prominent, reflecting increasing availability and popularity of sweeteners. The pies were often decorated and served at Christmas and New Year’s festivities.
Over time, the meat content in mincemeat decreased, and by the 19th century, many recipes became completely vegetarian, focusing on dried fruits, spices, and suet (animal fat) as a binder. The tradition of making mincemeat as a sweet, spiced filling persisted, especially in Britain.
Today, mincemeat pie is primarily a sweet dish, especially associated with Christmas in the UK and America. Modern recipes often omit meat entirely, focusing on dried fruits, spices, brandy or other spirits, and pastry. The historical connection to preservation and celebration remains, but the ingredients have evolved to suit contemporary tastes.
Mincemeat Pie
Mincemeat Pie is a traditional Christmas dessert that features a sweet filling made from a mixture called mincemeat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
Instructions
Place rack in lowest position in oven; heat oven to 425 degrees F.
Prepare pastry. Turn mincemeat into pastry-lined 9-inch pie plate. Cover with top crust; cut slits near center. Seal and flute.
Brush egg mixture over crust if desired.
Bake for 30 minutes or until golden.
Cool slightly.
Garnish as desired.
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