Pie is a beloved dessert and savory dish enjoyed all over the world, but its history stretches back thousands of years. The word “pie” comes from the Latin word “pica,” meaning magpie, because early pies were often made with a mixture of ingredients, similar to the way a magpie collects various objects. This article will explore the history of pie, from its humble beginnings to its present-day popularity.
The ancient Egyptians are credited with inventing the first pies. They would bake savory pies filled with meat and vegetables, and sweet pies filled with honey, dates, and nuts. These pies were often baked in a clay pot, which helped to keep the filling moist.
The ancient Greeks and Romans also enjoyed pies. The Greeks made pies filled with fish, and the Romans made pies filled with meat and fruit. These pies were often served at banquets and feasts.
During the Middle Ages, pies became more popular in Europe. They were often made with a crust made from flour, water, and lard, and filled with meat, vegetables, or fruit. Pies were a popular way to use up leftover ingredients, and they were often eaten by peasants who couldn’t afford more expensive foods.
In the 16th century, pies became even more popular in England. The pastry crust was refined, and pies were often decorated with intricate designs. Sweet pies filled with fruit, such as apples and berries, became popular, as did savory pies filled with meats, such as pork, beef, and chicken.
Pies also became associated with special occasions, such as Christmas and weddings. It was traditional to serve a mince pie at Christmas, which was filled with a mixture of dried fruits and spices. Wedding pies were often multi-tiered, with each tier filled with a different type of filling.
In the 17th century, pies made their way to North America. The early colonists brought with them recipes for meat pies and fruit pies, which they adapted to the local ingredients. Pumpkin pie, a staple of the American Thanksgiving feast, is thought to have originated with the Native Americans, who made a similar dish using squash.
During the Industrial Revolution, the production of pies became more efficient, thanks to advances in machinery and transportation. Pies could now be made on a larger scale, and they became more affordable for the working class.
In the 20th century, pies continued to evolve. In the United States, fast-food chains like McDonald’s began selling pies filled with fruit, cream, and other sweet fillings. In the UK, savory pies like steak and kidney and chicken and mushroom became popular pub fare.
Today, pie is enjoyed all over the world, and there are countless variations on the classic recipe. Some people prefer a flaky crust, while others prefer a more dense pastry. Sweet pies are still popular, with fillings like apple, cherry, and blueberry. Savory pies are also still enjoyed, with fillings like chicken and mushroom, shepherd’s pie, and pot pie.
In conclusion, pie has a long and fascinating history that spans thousands of years and many cultures. From its humble beginnings in ancient Egypt to its present-day popularity all over the world, pie has evolved and adapted to suit the tastes of different generations and regions. Whether sweet or savory, simple or elaborate, pie remains a beloved dish that brings joy to people of all ages.