Pork pies are a beloved traditional food in the UK. These savory pies feature a hot water crust pastry encasing a diced pork filling, often with the addition of egg. But what happens when you’ve got leftovers? Can you freeze pork pie with egg?
The good news is, yes you can successfully freeze pork pies containing egg! With proper freezing and thawing methods, pork pies maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
Read on for a complete guide to freezing pork pies with egg. We’ll cover
- An introduction to traditional pork pies
- Can you freeze pork pie with egg?
- How to properly freeze pork pies
- How long frozen pork pies last
- Thawing and using frozen pork pies
- Tips for best results freezing pork pies
Let’s dive in so you can keep enjoying these classic English pies!
First, what exactly are pork pies? These savory filled pies have been popular in Britain since the 19th century.
Authentic hot water crust pork pies contain:
- A hand-raised pastry made with boiling lard and water
- A filling of uncured pork and pork fat
- Seasonings like salt, pepper, and nutmeg
- Often a layer of cooked egg binding the filling
- An aspic jelly made from pork stock
The pork pie’s pastry case is baked free-standing, without a pie tin. This gives the crust its distinctive texture.
The addition of egg and pork jelly keeps the interior moist and flavorsome. Served cold, pork pies make a hearty snack or meal accompaniment.
Can You Freeze Pork Pies With Egg?
Pork pies containing egg can successfully be frozen, as long as proper techniques are followed.
When frozen and thawed correctly, pork pies maintain:
- A tender, moist pork filling
- The egg’s texture and binding properties
- A flaky, crunchy hot water crust
- The savory flavor of the aspic jelly
Freezing gives you access to tasty pork pies for months after purchase or preparation. You can even make a batch and freeze in portions.
Freezing stops the jelly from softening the pastry over time for better texture. So yes, freezing pork pies with egg is definitely possible!
How to Freeze Pork Pies With Egg
Use these steps for properly freezing pork pies containing egg:
- Let pies cool completely after baking, about 2 hours.
- Keep pies in their original packaging if possible. This protects the fragile crust.
- Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap, wax paper, or foil. This prevents freezer burn.
- Place wrapped pies in freezer bags or airtight containers.
- Squeeze out excess air and seal bags/containers. Air causes freezer burn.
- Label with contents and freeze date.
Follow those tips for delicious frozen pork pies anytime!
How Long Do Frozen Pork Pies With Egg Last?
When stored flat at 0°F or below, pork pies with egg will last 3-6 months in the freezer before quality declines.
For best flavor and texture, aim to eat frozen pork pies within 3 months. But pies frozen for 4-6 months should still be tasty.
Monitor your freezer temperature to ensure it maintains 0°F. Temperatures above 0°F shorten frozen pork pie shelf life.
How to Thaw Frozen Pork Pies With Egg
Always thaw frozen pork pies gradually in the fridge, never at room temperature. Room temperature thawing breeds bacteria.
Fridge thawing takes 12-24 hours depending on pie size. Thaw overnight for use the next day.
Once thawed, use pork pies within 3-4 days. Do not refreeze thawed pork pies, as this damages texture.
Reheating and Serving Thawed Pork Pies
Pork pies are typically served cold, but thawed pies can be briefly warmed if desired.
To warm, place unwrapped pies on a baking sheet in a 275°F oven for 15 minutes until heated through.
Microwaving also works to gently reheat thawed pork pies. Take care not to overcook them.
Serve pork pies with traditional accompaniments like pickled onions, chutney, mustard, or a salty cheese. The options are endless!
Tips for Freezing Pork Pies With Egg
Follow these tips for best results freezing pork pies with egg:
-
Select top quality fresh pies, not past sell-by date.
-
Cool pies completely before freezing to prevent soggy pastry.
-
Double wrap pies in paper and foil to protect from freezer burn.
-
Portion pies in meal sizes for easy thawing and use.
-
Remove all air from bags or containers for freshness.
-
Avoid refreezing thawed pork pies.
Is Freezing Pork Pies With Egg Worth It?
Freezing lets you enjoy pork pies for months after purchase or preparation. It offers many benefits:
- Saves money by preserving leftovers
- Adds convenience – pies are always on hand
- Allows bulk batch cooking and freezing
- Maintains tender filling and flaky crust
- Locks in freshness for 3-6 months
When frozen and thawed properly, pork pies with egg retain their delicious qualities. Freezing is absolutely worth it for enjoying these savory English classics anytime!
Now you have all the information for successfully freezing pork pies containing egg. Follow the guidance in this article, and you’ll always have tasty pies ready to thaw and serve. Enjoy this beloved British dish for months thanks to your freezer.
40 Foods That Freeze Well!!! Freezing Tips To Save Time & Money
FAQ
Can pork pie with egg be frozen?
What is the best way to freeze a pork pie?
Can you freeze Marks and Spencer’s pork pies?
What’s the best way to defrost a pork pie?
Can you freeze pork pie with egg?
Yes, you can freeze pork pie with egg, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind to maintain the quality and safety of the dish. Quality: Freezing may alter the texture and taste of the pork pie to some extent. The pastry might become a bit soggy upon thawing, and the egg filling could lose some of its original texture.
How do you defrost pork pies?
Defrosting pork pies is a simple process. Start by taking the pie out of its packaging and transferring it to a plate. Next, place the plate into the refrigerator and allow it to defrost for several hours. When the pie is almost completely defrosted, place the plate on the kitchen counter for about 30 minutes.
Can you freeze baked pork pie?
Freeze for up to three months. To thaw a frozen baked pork pie transfer it from the freezer to a plate and place it in the fridge for 24 hours. When ready to serve the pork pie pull it out of the fridge about an hour and a half before serving it to come to room temperature.
What happens if you freeze a pork pie?
Meat pies and pyes used the crust as a container for filling, rather than as a container to eat. If your frozen pork pie is not properly wrapped, it can become prone to freezer burn. It is intended to prevent the crust from being harmed by the damp atmosphere in the freezer. A frozen pork pie is then sealed in a plastic bag and zip or tie shut.