January 23 – National Pie Day

National Pie Day is today!

Pies are undeniably delicious treats that bring people together, providing an enjoyable dessert to any festive gathering. But they go beyond simply tasting delectable; pies offer a unique baking experience that can be both experimental and comforting. From the sound of rolling dough to scoring crimps between fingertips, making a pie is therapeutic and exciting.

Additionally, pies are versatile enough to fit any occasion – whether it’s a flaky apple pie in autumn or a fruity strawberry-rhubarb blend in summer. With countless flavor options (and combinations) available, pies are endlessly fun to create with friends and family. All in all, pies make for amazing desserts and meals – and amazing memories! So, let’s celebrate National Pie Day!

NATIONAL PIE DAY: THE HISTORY OF PIES

Pies have a long and illustrious history that dates back centuries. Archaeological records suggest that pies were enjoyed as early as 9500 BC in the area of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. Ancient Greeks filled their pies with honey, cheese, fish, onions, and herbs to make delicious savory dishes.

The Romans continued this tradition and by the 1300s, medieval citizens of England began using their own unique ingredients including beef, chicken, pork, fish, fruits, spices and even eggs. While all these were considered delicacies for their times, it was the development of pastry dough around the 1500s that marked the true beginning of pie making as we know it today.

Modern pies have all kinds of fillings and come in an almost limitless range of shapes and sizes; all testament to our baking ingenuity over many centuries!

NATIONAL PIE DAY: TEN UNIQUE PIES TO MAKE TODAY

Crafting a pie is an art, and with a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of innovation, we can elevate this timeless treat to new heights. From savory breakfast delights to exotic flavor fusions, the possibilities are as limitless as our imagination. Join us in the kitchen, where we’ll explore unconventional ingredients, unexpected pairings, and inventive techniques to create pies that not only satisfy our taste buds but also tell a story of culinary exploration. The world of unique pies awaits, promising a symphony of textures and tastes that redefine the art of pie-making. What do you think of these unique pies? Try one out to celebrate National Pie Day!

Savory Breakfast Pie: Transform your morning with a savory breakfast pie featuring eggs, bacon, cheese, and vegetables in a flaky crust—a delightful twist on traditional breakfast fare.
Thai Curry Chicken Pie: Infuse your pie with the exotic flavors of Thai cuisine by filling it with tender chunks of curry-seasoned chicken, coconut milk, and an array of aromatic herbs.
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart: Elevate the classic French onion tart by incorporating caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, and a buttery puff pastry crust for a sophisticated and savory pie experience.
Mexican Street Corn Pie: Capture the essence of Mexican street corn in a pie, blending roasted corn, cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder for a flavorful and unique twist on a savory pie.
Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Pie: Combine the richness of chocolate with the tartness of cherries in a Black Forest-inspired pie. Add a hint of cherry liqueur for an extra layer of decadence.
Caprese Galette: Take a savory turn with a Caprese-inspired galette, featuring layers of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on a rustic pie crust, drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Blueberry Lemon Thyme Pie: Infuse a classic blueberry pie with a burst of citrusy freshness by adding lemon zest and thyme, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
Mushroom and Brie Pot Pie: Elevate the traditional pot pie by filling it with a luscious combination of sautéed mushrooms, creamy Brie cheese, and a flavorful herb-infused gravy.
Maple Bacon Bourbon Pecan Pie: Give the classic pecan pie a boozy and savory twist by incorporating maple syrup, crispy bacon bits, and a hint of bourbon for a flavor explosion.
Roasted Vegetable and Goat Cheese Galette: Celebrate the harvest with a roasted vegetable and goat cheese galette, featuring a medley of seasonal veggies nestled in a flaky pastry crust for a rustic and wholesome pie experience.