Pies are a beloved dessert enjoyed around the world, but their history is as rich and diverse as the fillings they contain. From savoury pies in ancient civilizations to the sweet fruit pies we know today, the evolution of pie-making has been a fascinating journey. In this guide, we’ll explore the history of pies, tracing their origins, how they’ve evolved through the centuries, and the impact they’ve had on global cuisine.
The Origins of Pies: Ancient Beginnings
The history of pies dates back to ancient times, long before the flaky, sweet desserts we enjoy today. Early pies were savoury and made primarily with meat fillings. The word “pie” itself is believed to have come from the Latin word “pica,” referring to a type of bird. Early pies were made in a primitive way, and their crusts were often used for preserving the filling, not for eating.
Ancient Egypt and Greece
- Egyptians were among the first to make pie-like creations around 4,000 years ago, using simple dough to encase various fillings, including meats and fruits.
- The Greeks took this concept further, baking fillings like honey and fruit into the dough and making pies for both savoury and sweet uses. They would have used a more rudimentary form of pastry, likely made with flour, water, and oil.
Roman Influence
- The Romans are credited with creating the first true “pie” as we know it today. They made pie crusts from flour, water, and fat to encase meats and other fillings. Roman cookbooks even mentioned savoury pies with fillings such as pork, seafood, and cheese, and the crusts were often thick and inedible, meant only to preserve the fillings.
Medieval Pies: The Birth of the Sweet Pie
As pies evolved, they became a staple in medieval Europe. During this period, pies were primarily used to encase meat, as well as other hearty ingredients such as game, poultry, and even fish. The crusts were still often seen as containers rather than a delicious part of the dish.
The Role of Pies in Medieval Feasts
- Savory Meat Pies: Wealthy families enjoyed elaborate meat pies during feasts, often made with venison, beef, or fowl. These pies were large and often served as the centrepiece of the meal.
- The First Fruit Pies: The first sweet pies began to emerge in medieval times, often made with fruit such as apples, pears, and berries. Sugar was still a rare commodity, so sweet pies were less common and usually reserved for special occasions.
The Pie Crust Evolution
- The crusts during the medieval period were still quite different from today’s buttery, flaky ones. They were thicker and often not meant to be eaten. They served as protective casings for meats and fillings to cook evenly.
The Renaissance and the Rise of Sweet Pies
The Renaissance period marked a significant shift in the way pies were made and enjoyed. Sugar became more widely available, and sweet pies, especially fruit pies, gained popularity. This period also saw the introduction of more refined pastry techniques.
The Introduction of Sugar
- With the spread of sugar from the Middle East to Europe, sweet pies became more common. Fruits like apples, plums, and cherries were used in pies, sweetened with sugar or honey. This marked the beginning of the pies we recognize today, especially in Europe and the United Kingdom.
Pies in England
- In England, pies became a symbol of status and luxury during the Renaissance. The “Pie Men” were bakers who specialized in making pies, and pie-making became a highly skilled profession. Fruit pies became a popular treat, often served with a lattice crust or decorative patterns on top.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings as a way to encase meat to its status as a symbol of homey comfort and celebration, the history of pies is as layered as the pastry itself. Over the centuries, pies have evolved to reflect the tastes and cultures of different regions. Today, pies remain a beloved dessert and savory dish worldwide, continuously adapted to suit new generations of bakers and food lovers.