No Humble Pie: How This Baked Treat Evolved Over Centuries

Have you ever mulled over the story behind a dessert? Not just its transformation from the oven to your table, but its remarkable, historical voyage through time? No? Then now’s your chance. Let me take you on a captivating journey that traces the evolution of pie.Its narrative is one that showcases adaptation, cultural exchange and culinary innovation.

ORIGINS

The story of pie begins in Egypt though those early versions differed greatly from what we enjoy today. Picture a filling made with honey, and baked not in pans but reeds. Now let’s travel to Greece, where the foundation for pie pastry was established — a simple crust made of flour and water that set the stage for future advancements.

The Romans embraced this concept wholeheartedly, introducing meat fillings and spreading their love for pies throughout their empire. When pies arrived in England, they underwent yet another transformation. The crust evolved into a flaky and buttery delight.

In England, pies became an emblem of homeliness and comfort food. As the British embarked on voyages to distant lands, they carried this beloved treat with them, eventually reaching America. There it once again transformed and took on the flavors of the area — incorporating pumpkins, apples and pecans — to become the icon we know today. The widespread commercial availability of sugar also contributed to the pie’s transition from purely savory to sweet.

THE PERFECT PIE RECIPE

Here's a timeless recipe that will guide you in crafting a pie masterpiece.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups of all purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1 cup of butter chilled and diced
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup of ice water

For the filling:

• 6 cups of sliced peeled apples
• 3/4 cup of sugar
• 2 tablespoons of flour
• 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
• A pinch (about a quarter teaspoon) each ground nutmeg and salt
• 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
• An egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Method:

1. Mix together the all purpose flour, salt and sugar. Add in the chilled and diced butter until you have crumbs. Gradually add in ice water until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two portions, wrap them individually and chill in the refrigerator for an hour.
2. In a bowl combine sliced and peeled apples, with sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, a pinch each of ground nutmeg and salt.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one portion of the chilled dough to fit a nine inch pie dish. Place it in the pie dish and pour in the apple filling mixture. Make sure to dot the top with pieces of unsalted butter. Then cover the whole thing with the second portion of chilled dough. Seal the edges well and brush the top with beaten egg.
4. Place the pie in your oven and bake it for about 50 to 60 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Cool the pie before serving it.

PIE IN THE SKY

The story of pies is a testament to human ingenuity, taking us on a journey across cultures and time. From its beginning as a homely meal to becoming a symbol of culinary artistry, the pie has proven its endurance. So, every time you indulge in the pleasure of savoring a slice of pie, remember that you are not just enjoying a sweet treat but also partaking in an ancient tradition that has been passed down through generations — a tradition that unfolds further with each flaky and scrumptious bite.