The British Pie Awards are back for another year, and the entries this time around are unlike anything we’ve ever seen. Vegan pies, bacon cheeseburger pies, and even doner kebab pies are examples of the ever-increasing diversity of the pie market. Melton Mowbray, known as Britain’s pork pie capital, is hosting the awards, and the winners will be announced later.
The BBC interviewed a number of contestants about their innovative creations. Jay Jones of Birmingham, who operates the street food business Pietanic, entered his bacon cheeseburger pie. He explained that it contains all the components of a traditional bacon cheeseburger, except for a bun. Mark Wilkinson submitted an Italian-style meatball pie in honour of his son’s favourite food. Alexander Melling’s pies also honour his family, with the Big Jim named after his late father and the Nearly As Good As Mama Joan’s Lasagne Pie honouring his “family rock” mother. Calum Nall of the Anne of Cleves pub in Melton Mowbray created a Deer in the Black Forest Pie with venison, redcurrants, mushrooms, juniper berries, and dark chocolate, a unique combination inspired by the surrounding countryside. William Hall from W.M. Fraser Butchers in Stranraer entered a lamb, herbs, and spices doner kebab pie with a sweet chilli glaze.
The British Pie Awards have demonstrated that pies are capable of much more than pastry and gravy. There are countless possible combinations, and many of them are now recognised for their deliciousness. The winners of this year’s awards will soon be announced, so keep an eye out!
