Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Are you craving something hearty and wholesome that pays homage to classic British cuisine? You may find yourself drooling at the thought of a Hairy Bikers Cumberland Sausage Pie, a dish that delivers layers of flavor, texture, and comfort. Picture a golden pastry encasing rich, savory sausage, flavored with herbs and spices, nestled in a warm, inviting pie that promises to warm your heart and soul. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a fuss-free meal or a kitchen novice wanting to impress, this recipe has you covered.
This delightful dish encapsulates what it means to indulge in classic comfort food. The Hairy Bikers, famed British chefs David Myers and Simon King, have created a version that stays true to its roots while making it accessible for everyone. You’ll discover how easy it is to create this masterpiece from scratch, using simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. With its delectable flavor and satisfying texture, you’ll want to share it with family and friends, making it an excellent addition to your recipe repertoire.
In this article, you will learn all the necessary steps for making this comforting pie, from gathering ingredients to baking and serving. I’ll share tips for perfecting your pastry, variations for dietary needs, and storage methods for leftovers. Let’s get started on this delightful culinary journey!
What Is Hairy Bikers Cumberland Sausage Pie | Classic British Comfort Food?
The Hairy Bikers Cumberland Sausage Pie is more than just a dish; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that embodies the spirit of British cooking. Originating from the rolling hills of Cumbria in England, it highlights the rich, fine-quality sausages that the region is famous for. At its core, this pie features coarse-ground sausages combined with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, an excellent marriage of flavors that create a satisfyingly hearty filling.
Imagine flaky, buttery pastry cradling a rich meat filling, filled with pure comfort. The texture plays a crucial role; as you cut into the pie, the crisp pastry gives way to the succulent, juicy sausage mixture. It is an experience that engages all your senses – you can delight in the rustic aroma wafting from the oven, watch the crust turn golden brown, and revel in the first bite that melds all those fantastic flavors together. This type of pie goes beyond mere sustenance; it is a celebration of culinary heartiness that epitomizes comfort within every slice.
Over the centuries, pies have been a staple not just for their taste but also for their practicality. They were an ingenious way to preserve meat and other ingredients, allowing families to enjoy flavorful meals even on the harshest of days. The Hairy Bikers Cumberland Sausage Pie revitalizes this tradition, making it a perfect dish for chilly evenings, dinner parties, or even casual get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love This
You will fall head over heels for this Hairy Bikers Cumberland Sausage Pie, and here’s why: it brings forth an incredible **taste** that satisfies your cravings while providing endless comfort. The aromas from the baking sausage and herbs waft through your home, inviting everyone to the dinner table. It’s a **versatile** dish, making it suitable for various occasions, be it a family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner.
Not only does it yield a delightful flavor experience, but it also proves to be **easy to make**. With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself crafting a dish worthy of any chef’s repertoire. Additionally, you can customize the recipe based on dietary preferences, using alternatives for gluten or meat. This adaptability is especially great for busy parents who may need to cater to various dietary needs within the family.
Cost-effective and satisfying, this dish also shines in terms of **nutritional value**. Utilising fresh ingredients like herbs and good-quality sausages ensures that you serve a meal that’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthier option than takeout. Moreover, preparing it at home allows you to customize the ingredients, making it just right for your family.
One common misconception is that homemade pies are incredibly labor-intensive, but rest assured, this one is manageable! With practice, you will soon become adept at working with pastry, and the joy of creating something from scratch will outweigh any perceived challenges. The Hairy Bikers Cumberland Sausage Pie simplifies the pie-making process while ensuring robust flavors, which will make it a cherished addition to your culinary collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a perfect Hairy Bikers Cumberland Sausage Pie, you will need the following ingredients:
- 500g Cumberland sausages – The star of the dish! These sausages are packed with flavor and have a distinctive coarse texture. You can substitute with any high-quality sausage if needed.
- 1 onion, finely chopped – This adds sweetness and depth to your filling. Shallots can also be used for a milder flavor.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the aroma and adds complexity to your dish.
- 100g mushrooms, diced – Mushrooms contribute an earthy flavor and additional moisture. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, these can be omitted or replaced with additional vegetables.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness and vibrancy, balancing the richness of the sausage.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – An essential herb that complements the sausages nicely.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – This brings a savory umami depth to the pie. A splash of soy sauce can work as an alternative.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season well for maximum flavor.
- 500g shortcrust pastry – The crispy outer layer that holds it all together. You can make it from scratch or buy ready-made pastry for convenience.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) – This is used to brush the pie before baking, giving it that enticing golden brown finish.
Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in achieving the pie’s distinct taste and texture. To ensure optimal flavor, it’s best to use the freshest ingredients possible. Always taste the filling mixture before baking, making necessary adjustments to the seasoning. When substituting ingredients, choose options that marry well with the existing flavors to maintain the intended essence of the dish.
How to Make
Creating a Hairy Bikers Cumberland Sausage Pie may sound daunting, but it is remarkably simple. Follow these instructions step-by-step, and you’ll have a magnificent pie in no time!
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (or 180°C for fan ovens). This ensures that your pie will cook evenly and achieve that desired golden-brown finish.
- Prepare the sausage filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent. This process will usually take about 5 minutes. Next, incorporate the minced garlic and diced mushrooms and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add sausages: Remove the sausage meat from the casings and add it to the skillet. Crumble the meat as you cook it, so it integrates well with the other ingredients. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Allow this mixture to cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in the fresh parsley at the end.
- Make the pastry shell: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the shortcrust pastry to about 3mm thick. Ensure you have enough pastry to cover the base and sides of a round pie dish. Carefully place the rolled pastry in your dish, trimming any excess that hangs over the edges.
- Fill the pie: Spoon the prepared sausage mixture into the pastry-lined pie dish, spreading it evenly. This will create a luscious filling that will keep the pastry from getting soggy.
- Top with pastry: Roll out another piece of pastry to cover the filling, trimming it to size as necessary. Seal the edges by crimping them together with your fingers or a fork. Make a few slits in the top of the pie to allow steam to escape during baking. Brush the top with the beaten egg to create a lovely golden finish.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown. When ready, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Slice the pie into wedges and serve warm. A lovely side salad or some steamed vegetables works well to complement the rich hearty flavor of the pie.
Cooking doesn’t always have to be a long affair, and with this pie, you can enjoy a sophisticated, comforting meal with relatively minimal effort. This recipe will make your kitchen smell divine, and the end product will definitely be a talking point at the dinner table!
Variations & Substitutions
Vegetarian Variation: For those following a vegetarian diet, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your needs. Instead of using sausage, opt for a meat-free alternative such as lentils or a selection of your favorite vegetables. Try adding cooked mushrooms, spinach, kidney beans, or even a mix of roasted root vegetables. This will give you a savory filling that maintains the heartiness of the dish without sacrificing flavor.
Gluten-Free Variation: If you need a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free shortcrust pastry or make your own with gluten-free flour blends. Ensure to check all your ingredients for any hidden gluten, especially in sauces like Worcestershire. The filling can remain the same, giving you the same mouthwatering experience while adhering to dietary restrictions.
Herbed Variation: Enhancing your pie filling with different herbs can elevate your dish significantly. Fresh herbs like sage, rosemary, or even dill can impart new flavors that create a unique twist on the classic recipe. Experiment with the quantities, and remember that fresh herbs are generally more potent than dried ones, so adjust according to your taste preferences.
Spicy Variation: For those who enjoy a kick, adding spices such as cayenne pepper or red chili flakes can add excitement to the filling. Incorporating a diced chili or using spicy sausage will also enhance the flavors without overwhelming the delicacy of the other ingredients. This variation appeals to those who like a richer flavor profile and a bit of heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be tricky, but avoiding these common pitfalls will ensure your Hairy Bikers Cumberland Sausage Pie turns out perfectly every time. One critical mistake is **not seasoning the filling adequately**. With a dish centered around meat, the flavor of the filling hinges on how well you season it, so don’t skip on salt and pepper. Always taste the mixture before filling the pastry to adjust the seasoning.
Another common error is **overworking the pastry**, leading to tough, chewy crusts instead of flaky ones. When preparing your pastry, ensure to handle it gently and avoid excessive kneading. Additionally, don’t forget to chill the pastry briefly before rolling it out; this will help maintain its structure and make it easier to work with.
A third pitfall is **not allowing the pie to rest after baking**. Cooling it for about 10-15 minutes ensures that the filling sets, making it easier to slice. Cutting into a hot pie might lead to a messy filling and poor presentation.
Lastly, ensure you **preheat your oven properly**. Placing the pie in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking—baking the bottom separately from the filling, leading to an undercooked or soggy bottom crust. A preheated oven creates the ideal environment for that delightful golden brown finish.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (or want to make it ahead), knowing how to store, freeze, and reheat your Hairy Bikers Cumberland Sausage Pie will keep it fresh and delicious. After cooling, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to three days and still be scrumptious.
For longer-term storage, consider freezing the pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen, it should last for about 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, there’s no need to defrost; simply bake it directly from the freezer in a preheated oven, adding extra baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
When reheating a pie, whether it’s taken from the fridge or freezer, place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (or 160°C for fan ovens) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. To regain that crispy texture, avoid microwaving and opt for the oven for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Cumberland sausage is traditional and provides great flavor, feel free to experiment with different types. Pork sausages, chicken sausages, or even turkey sausages can work beautifully. Aim for varieties that have distinct flavor profiles so that you maintain the heartiness of the dish.
Is it necessary to make my own pastry?
Not at all! While homemade pastry can be satisfying and is often flakier, using ready-made shortcrust pastry can significantly reduce preparation time. If you opt for store-bought, just be sure to follow the package instructions for best results. homemade pastry is a wonderful option if you’re feeling adventurous and want that **extra touch of homemade goodness**.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes! Adding vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also increases the nutritional value. You can mix in chopped carrots, peas, or even some grated cheese for a delicious twist. The key is to ensure the vegetables are cooked beforehand, preventing excess moisture from making the filling soggy.
How can I make this pie lighter?
To lighten the dish, consider using leaner sausages and reducing the amount of pastry. Another option would be to use a lattice topping instead of a solid crust, which allows steam to escape while still providing a balance of flavors. You could also serve it with a side salad to complete the meal while keeping it lighter overall.
What should I serve with the pie?
This pie is quite hearty on its own, but serving it with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables can create a well-rounded meal. You can also enjoy it with chutney, pickles, or even a dollop of **mashed potatoes** on the side for an extra comforting touch.
Conclusion:
This Hairy Bikers Cumberland Sausage Pie is a quintessential dish that invites warmth and comfort into your home. Its rich flavors and comforting texture are bound to make it a favorite among family and friends. As you experiment with variations and adapt the recipe to your preferences, you’ll find endless possibilities. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the delightful aroma of homemade pie fill your kitchen. Share it with loved ones, and let each slice bring smiles to the faces around your dinner table! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
