Meat Pies in America: A Culinary Look at Pies, Empanadas, and Beyond
Meat pies may not be as ubiquitous in America as in some other countries, but they do have their place in the American culinary landscape. From frozen pot pies to savory hand pies, Americans have a variety of meat-filled pastries to choose from, each with its own unique twist and regional influence.
Are Meat Pies Popular in America?
Yes, meat pies are available in America, although they may not be as popular or traditional as in the UK, Australia, or other countries. In the United States, you can find various types of meat pies often served in regional cuisines. Some popular examples include pot pies, savory hand pies, and meat-filled pastries.
Available in the Store
Meat pies, particularly pot pies, are widely available in stores. Customers can often find them in freezers with a selection of different varieties. I, for one, keep a box of four pot pies in my freezer for quick meals. Major stores like Swanson and Boston Markets offer high-quality options that are convenient and budget-friendly.
The Most Usual Type of Pie with Meat in the US
The most common type of pie with meat in the US is the pot pie. These pies are typically commercially produced and frozen, ready for heating at home. The filling often includes a combination of meat and vegetables, often with a lot of gravy. Pot pies are usually baked in a dish with a top crust, and sometimes a lower crust as well. They are not usually eaten by the slice but rather served whole.
Regional Specialties and Variations
While pot pies can be found throughout the country, meat pies in a one-handed form (similar to the Cornish pasty or empanadas) are less common. However, there are regions where they have become traditional.
Meat Pies in Louisiana
In the town of Natchitoches, Louisiana, meat pies are a specialty. The crawfish pie, often baked in a pan like a pot pie, is a notable example. Some versions of these pies are made with a folded-over crust, allowing for a handheld pie. Local traditions and music often celebrate these pies, with songs like "Jambalaya crawfish pie filé gumbo" showcasing their charm.
Meat Pies in Michigan
Miners from Cornwall in the UK immigrated to Michigan and settled in the copper mines of Upper Peninsula, taking their pasties with them. Cornish pasties are a type of savory pie filled with meat, vegetables, and potatoes, all encased in a pastry crust. These pasties are not just a part of culinary history but also a cultural staple, symbolizing the resilience and traditions of immigrant communities.
Meat Pies in California
Similar traditions are seen in California, where Cornish miners working in the Gold Rush and silver mines brought their pasties. In towns like Grass Valley, a company called Grass Valley Pasty Co. continues to honor this tradition, offering pasties that embody both Cornish and local influences.
Other Meat-Packed Pies and Pastries
Beyond specific regional specialties, Americans enjoy various other meat pies and pastries. For example, empanadas are particularly popular in areas with large Mexican, Central, and South American populations. These handheld pies are filled with savory fillings and are a favorite in many households, especially during festive occasions.
Additionally, many Italian-American restaurants and pizza joints offer variations of the calzone, a popular Italian stuffed pizza filled with different meats and cheeses, often folded in half and baked to perfection.
In conclusion, while meat pies may not be as widely recognized or consumed in the U.S. as in other countries, they have a significant presence in various regional cuisines and have adapted to the diverse cultural landscape of the United States. Whether you prefer a hand-held pasty, a savory empanada, or a hearty pot pie, there's a meat pie to suit every taste and occasion.