As an avid food blogger and home cook, I’m always on the lookout for tasty pairings that bring out the best in classic dishes. And when it comes to the traditional pork pie, finding the right accompaniments can take this savory pastry from pleasant to perfection.
In this article, I’ll share my top suggestions for side dishes, condiments, desserts and more that complement the rich flavours of pork pie. With over 30 delicious ideas, you’re sure to discover some new favorite combinations!
A Brief History of the Humble Pork Pie
Before diving into pairings, let’s take a quick look at the origins of this beloved British food. Pork pies have been around since the Middle Ages, when they were considered a luxury item due to the high cost of spices.
The pastry shell acts as a preserver, allowing the pies to be eaten cold and preventing the meat from spoiling quickly. This made them an ideal snack for outdoor activities like picnics, hunts and long journeys by horse and carriage.
Over time pork pies became more affordable and a staple at pubs across Britain. The classic recipe includes a hot water crust pastry filled with boneless pork and seasoned with herbs and spices. The top is decorated with a pastry rose crust for a pretty finish.
Nowadays pork pies are still a picnic favourite, but also make tasty starters, lunches or snacks. Their versatility means they pair well with a wide array of sides and condiments.
Classic Accompaniments for Pork Pie
Pickles and Chutneys
Adding a dollop of chutney or branston pickle brings a delicious tanginess that cuts through the richness of the pork. Some excellent options include:
- Branston pickle – The chunky vegetable mix offers a classic zing.
- Piccalilli – Bright yellow in color with crisp veggies and a mustardy kick.
- Onion chutney – For a sweet and sour flavor from the caramelized onions.
- Ploughman’s chutney – A hearty blend of fruit, vegetables and spices.
Cheese
A creamy slice of cheese creates balance with the salty pork filling. Go for crumbly, nutty cheeses like:
- Stilton – The bold blue veining gives a punchy taste.
- Red Leicester – A vintage cheddar with a subtle tang.
- Wensleydale – Often paired with fruit, its flaky texture complements pork pies.
Fresh Bread
No pork pie would be complete without fresh bread on the side. The choices are endless, but some excellent options include:
- Crusty baguette – Perfect for tearing off pieces and sharing.
- Sourdough loaf – A touch of tang that works beautifully with the pie.
- Farmhouse bread – The soft, wholesome texture soaks up flavors.
- Granary bread – Nutty with a wholesome crunch.
Salads and Veggies
Crunchy, fresh salads make a lighter pairing for the meaty pie. Ideas include:
- Garden salad – Lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes and radish slices.
- Potato salad – Potatoes, mayo, mustard, spring onions.
- Coleslaw – Cabbage, carrot, mayonnaise dressing.
- Roasted veggies – Hearty parsnips, beets, carrots.
Fruit
For a touch of natural sweetness, try pairing with:
- Apple slices – Braeburn or Granny Smiths work nicely.
- Fruit chutney – Mango or apricot options.
- Red grapes – Fresh, pops of juicy sweetness.
Condiments and Sauces for Extra Flavor
To amp up the flavor of the pie even further, consider serving it with:
Mustard
The zesty kick works perfectly with the rich pork filling.
- English mustard – Fiery, pungent and strong.
- Wholegrain mustard – More subtle heat and added texture.
Cranberry Sauce
Both the sweet and tart notes enhance the pork.
- Smooth cranberry sauce – For a sweet glaze.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce – Fruity, tangy bursts.
Horseradish
The punch of this spicy condiment cuts through the flaky pastry.
- Creamed horseradish – Velvety but still potent taste.
- Fresh horseradish – Grate it yourself for bold kick.
Quenching Drinks for Pork Pies
Wash it all down with a tasty beverage like:
Beer
- Bitter – The malty, hoppy flavors work nicely.
- Stout – Deep, roasted undertones complement the meat.
Cider
- Dry cider – Sharp and refreshing against the saltiness.
- Sweet cider – Fruity balance for the savory pie.
Wine
- Pinot Noir – Hints of berry fruits without overwhelming.
- Chardonnay – Buttery notes from oaked varieties.
Hot Drinks
- English Breakfast Tea – Strong, creamy and rejuvenating.
- Coffee – Espresso’s richness matches the pie.
Sweet Treats to Finish
Satisfy your sweet tooth after eating by serving:
- Seasonal fruit salad – Fresh berries, peaches, melon.
- Eton mess – Crushed meringue, strawberries, cream.
- Lemon posset – Cool, silky citrus cream.
- Sticky toffee pudding – For something warm and decadent.
Handy Serving Tips
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Offer variety by serving 2-3 different pickles, chutneys or cheeses.
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Bread, crackers and veggie crudites pair nicely for sharing and snacking.
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Condiments like mustard and horseradish can be very potent, so add sparingly.
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For drinks, offer a choice of beer, cider or fruity soft drinks.
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Pre-slice any desserts and fruits to make them easy finger foods.
Putting it All Together
With so many possibilities, the challenge is narrowing down your choices! I recommend picking:
- 1 or 2 creamy cheeses
- 1 type of bread or crackers
- 1 chutney or pickle
- Garden salad or slaw
- Condiments like mustard and horseradish
- 1 drink option
- Sliced fruits or simple dessert
Serve up these tasty companions for a truly memorable pork pie experience. The balanced flavors and array of textures are sure to delight.
RECIPE-LESS PORK PIE COOK OFF!! | Sorted Food
What goes well with pork pie?
Roasted root vegetables, apple and fennel slaw, and truffle risotto are all vegetarian-friendly side dishes that pair well with pork pie. 4.
Can one eat pork?
A cooked, medium pork cutlet or steak provides 239 calories, 34 grams protein, 10 grams fat, 4 grams saturated fat, 697 milligrams sodium, and 0 grams carbohydrate, if you eat only the lean part of the steak. Pork contains many of the micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) found in beef and it is high in protein, but can be lower in fat than beef—depending on cut and preparation. Meat from any kind of mammal, including pork, can cause an allergic reaction (and some people who are allergic to mammalian meat also react to poultry).
What goes well with meat pie?
Crispy green beans are a light and healthy side dish that pairs well with meat pie. The crispy texture and fresh flavor of the green beans provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty meat filling. 4. Sweet Potato Fries Sweet potato fries are a sweet and savory side dish that pairs well with meat pie.
Should you eat a pork pie?
No, the pork pie is a lunch dish, a pub snack or – particularly over Christmas – the centrepiece of a “picky tea” (served alongside cheese in a kind of improvised ploughman’s), when you have had a gutful of overly rich, sweet and sticky foods, and you need something refreshingly cold that you can pick at, piecemeal, at your own pace.