Mary berry chicken pie with chunky potato topping

Mary berry chicken pie with chunky potato topping

I. Introduction

Mary Berry is a well-known figure in British cooking, inspiring many home cooks with her easy and tasty recipes. She focuses on using good ingredients and classic methods, changing how British families cook. Mary’s Chicken Pie with Chunky Potato Topping shows the comforting side of traditional British food, mixing rich flavors with hearty textures. This pie is not only a delicious meal but also brings feelings of nostalgia and warmth to the dinner table. We will also look at the history of the dish, its nutritional facts, and how to make vegan versions, which will add to its usefulness and appeal.

II. Mary Berry’s Unique Approach & Historical Context

Mary Berry believes that using great ingredients is important for making amazing dishes. Her Chicken Pie recipe comes from traditional British cooking, where pies were filled with meats and vegetables for a hearty meal. This dish has changed over time to suit modern tastes, but it still keeps its comforting essence.

According to culinary historians, the tradition of meat pies in Britain dates back to the medieval era when they were made with a variety of fillings. Mary Berry’s version respects this heritage by incorporating tender chicken and vegetables in a creamy sauce, while her personal touch includes a chunky potato topping that adds a satisfying crunch. This balance of tradition and innovation is what makes her recipe stand out.

III. Notices on Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients:

• For the Filling:
  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery sticks, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 250ml chicken stock (preferably homemade or a quality brand)
  • 200ml double cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• For the Potato Topping:
  • 800g potatoes, peeled and cubed (use Maris Piper for best texture)
  • 50g butter
  • 100ml milk
  • 100g mature cheddar cheese, grated (choose a high-quality brand)

Equipment:

• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (approx. 2-liter capacity)
• Potato masher
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and chopping board

IV. Recipe Instructions

Prepare the Filling: First of all, Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.

Cook the Chicken: Add the minced garlic and chicken thighs to the pan. After this, Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned.

Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken stock and double cream. Stir in dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.

Prepare the Potato Topping: In a separate pot, boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and return to the pot. After this, Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth. Stir in grated cheddar cheese.

Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). After this, Pour the chicken filling into a baking dish. Spoon the mashed potato topping over the filling, spreading it evenly.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Serve: After this, Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

V. Flavor Profile & Nutritional Information

The flavor profile of Mary Berry’s Chicken Pie is rich and comforting, with the creaminess of the sauce perfectly complementing the tender chicken and vegetables. The chunky potato topping adds a delightful texture and a cheesy flavor that rounds out each bite.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

This breakdown provides a hearty meal, perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings in.

VI. Tips for a Perfect Chicken Pie

• Avoid Watery Sauce: Ensure the sauce is well-reduced before adding the filling to prevent a watery pie. Using quality stock enhances flavor and richness.
• Enhance Flavor: For a more robust taste, consider using aged cheddar cheese or adding a breadcrumb topping mixed with herbs for extra crunch.
• Variations: Experiment with adding different cheeses, such as blue cheese, or incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme for added depth.

VII. Alternative Recipes (Vegan and Non-Vegan)

Vegan Version:

• Ingredients:
  • 500g plant-based chicken substitute
  • Olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery sticks, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 250ml vegetable stock
  • 200ml coconut cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 800g potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 50g vegan butter
  • 100ml almond milk
  • Nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor

Instructions:

1. Follow the same instructions as above, substituting plant-based ingredients where necessary.

VIII. Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Consider serving this pie with a side of steamed green vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Variations could include adding different vegetables like peas, or using puff pastry instead of potato topping for a different texture.

IX. Storage & Reheating Instructions

Put any leftover pie in a sealed container and keep it in the fridge for up to approximately 3 days. To warm it up, cover it with foil and heat it in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 20 minutes, or until it’s hot all the way through.

X. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I freeze the chicken pie? Yes, you can easily freeze the assembled pie before baking. Just ensure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
2. What can I substitute for chicken? For a vegetarian option, you can used mushrooms or a plant-based substitute.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling and topping in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

XI. Conclusion & Call to Action

Mary Berry’s Chicken Pie with Chunky Potato Topping is a delightful recipe that combines tradition with modern flavors. Its comforting essence makes it a perfect dish for any occasion. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback with us. Explore more delicious recipes on our website!

XII. Additional Resources

For further exploration of Mary Berry’s culinary works, check out her official website at Mary Berry’s Cookbooks. For insights into various recipes, visit Culinary Hill.