Mary berry Raised Chicken and Bacon Pie

I. Introduction

Mary Berry is a beloved figure in British cooking, known for her expertise and charm. With over 70 cookbooks, including bestselling titles like Mary Berry Cooks and Mary Berry’s Baking Bible, she has inspired generations to enjoy cooking. Her role as a judge on BBC’s The Great British Bake Off further solidified her status, making her the nation’s favorite baker.

The Raised Chicken and Bacon Pie exemplifies the comforting essence of British cuisine, warming the heart while reflecting rich cooking traditions. This exploration includes its historical context, nutritional information, and even a vegan adaptation to accommodate various dietary preferences.

II. Mary Berry’s Unique Approach & Historical Context

Mary Berry highlights the importance of using quality ingredients, which significantly enhances the flavor and texture of her dishes. The Raised Chicken and Bacon Pie draws from traditional British cuisine, where pies have long been a staple, typically filled with meat and vegetables. Historical accounts indicate that the concept of pies dates back to ancient civilizations, evolving into the cherished dish we know today.

Mary Berry’s recipe beautifully honors traditional cooking while adding her own unique twist. She emphasizes rich flavors through thoughtfully chosen ingredients, ensuring each bite is a delightful experience. Her method effectively combines the best of traditional and modern cooking, making her recipes both accessible and sophisticated.

III. Notices on Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients:

• For the Pastry:
  • 500g plain flour
  • 250g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • Cold water, as needed
• For the Filling:
  • 600g chicken breast, diced
  • 200g smoked bacon, chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 300ml chicken stock
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)

Equipment:

• A large mixing bowl
• A rolling pin
• A pie dish (preferably deep)
• A frying pan
• A wooden spoon
• Baking parchment
• A pastry brush

IV. Recipe Instruction

Make the Pastry: In a large mixing bowl, mix together 500g of plain flour and 250g of chilled, cubed unsalted butter. Now Rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Next, add the egg yolk and just enough cold water to form a dough. Once the dough is formed, wrap it in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling: In a frying pan, cook 200g chopped smoked bacon over medium heat until crispy. After this, Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking until soft. Stir in 600g diced chicken breast, cooking until browned. Add 300ml chicken stock and 1 tsp dried thyme, simmering for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Roll Out the Pastry: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Divide the pastry into two portions—one larger for the base and one smaller for the lid. After this, Roll out the larger portion on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.

Assemble the Pie: Line the pie dish with the rolled-out pastry, trimming the edges. Fill with the chicken and bacon mixture. Roll out the smaller portion of pastry for the lid, placing it on top. Seal the edges by crimping and make a small hole in the center to allow steam to escape. After this, Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake the Pie: After this, Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.

V. Flavor Profile & Nutritional Information

The Raised Chicken and Bacon Pie offers a delightful combination of savory chicken, smoky bacon, and aromatic herbs, all enveloped in a flaky pastry. Each slice reveals juicy filling, making it a hearty meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 25g

VI. Tips for a Perfect Cauliflower Cheese

• Common Issues: If your sauce is watery, ensure you use enough cheese and let it thicken over low heat. For bland flavor, season generously with salt, pepper, and mustard.
• Enhancements: Consider using aged cheddar for a richer flavor or add a breadcrumb topping for extra texture.

VII. Alternative (Vegan and Non-Vegan)

Vegan Option:

• Use a plant-based pastry and replace chicken with mushrooms and lentils, using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Follow the same cooking instructions.

Ingredients for Vegan Filling:

• 400g mushrooms, diced
• 200g lentils, cooked
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 300ml vegetable stock
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

VIII. Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

• Variations: Add vegetables like peas or carrots to the filling for added nutrition.
• Serving Suggestions: For a complete meal, pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.

IX. Storage & Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to approximately 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C for 15-20 minutes until piping hot.

X. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I freeze the pie? Yes, The pie can be easily frozen before baking. Thaw and bake when ready to enjoy.
• What can I use instead of chicken? Try turkey or a mix of seasonal vegetables for a lighter option.

XI. Conclusion & Call to Action

This Raised Chicken and Bacon Pie is not only delicious but also versatile, perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try this recipe in your own kitchen and share your experiences with friends and family!

XII. Additional Resources

For more recipes and cooking inspiration, visit Mary Berry’s official website and explore Culinary Hill.