For those who have grown up with the comforting taste of steak pie, moving to a new country can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to finding familiar foods. One of the most common questions asked by British expats and steak pie enthusiasts is: do they have steak pie in America? The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on various factors such as region, cultural influences, and personal preferences.
A Brief History of Steak Pie
Before we dive into the world of American steak pie, let’s take a brief look at its origins. Steak pie, also known as steak and kidney pie, is a traditional British dish made with slow-cooked beef, onions, and sometimes kidney, topped with a puff pastry crust. The dish has its roots in medieval times, when cooks would use tougher cuts of meat and slow-cook them in a broth to make them tender. The addition of pastry crust became popular in the 19th century, and the dish has since become a staple of British cuisine.
Steak Pie in America: A Regional Perspective
While steak pie may not be as widely popular in America as it is in the UK, there are certain regions where you can find variations of this dish. In the Northeast, particularly in New England, you can find a similar dish called “steak and kidney pie” or “beef pie.” This version is often made with a filling similar to the British version, but with a thicker, more robust crust.
In the South, you may come across a dish called “chicken and steak pie,” which is a variation of the traditional steak pie made with chicken and beef. This dish is often served at family gatherings and is a staple of Southern cuisine.
On the West Coast, particularly in California, you can find a more modern take on steak pie, with fillings such as filet mignon and mushrooms, topped with a flaky pastry crust.
Regional Variations: A Closer Look
While these regional variations may not be exact replicas of the traditional British steak pie, they share similarities and are worth trying. Here are a few examples:
- In New England, the “steak and kidney pie” is often made with a filling similar to the British version, but with a thicker, more robust crust. You can find this dish at traditional New England restaurants, such as the Union Oyster House in Boston.
- In the South, the “chicken and steak pie” is a variation of the traditional steak pie made with chicken and beef. This dish is often served at family gatherings and is a staple of Southern cuisine. You can find this dish at traditional Southern restaurants, such as the Loveless Cafe in Nashville.
- On the West Coast, particularly in California, you can find a more modern take on steak pie, with fillings such as filet mignon and mushrooms, topped with a flaky pastry crust. You can find this dish at upscale restaurants, such as the French Laundry in Yountville.
Where to Find Steak Pie in America
While steak pie may not be as widely available as other dishes, there are certain restaurants, bakeries, and stores where you can find this delicious treat. Here are a few examples:
- British Import Stores: If you’re looking for a traditional British steak pie, you can try visiting a British import store. These stores often carry a variety of British products, including frozen steak pies. Some popular British import stores in the US include The English Tea Store and The British Delights Store.
- Irish Pubs: Irish pubs are another great place to find steak pie. Many Irish pubs serve traditional Irish dishes, including steak pie. Some popular Irish pubs in the US include The Dead Rabbit in New York City and The Irish Village in Las Vegas.
- Upscale Restaurants: If you’re looking for a more modern take on steak pie, you can try visiting an upscale restaurant. Many upscale restaurants serve creative variations of steak pie, made with high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Some popular upscale restaurants in the US include The French Laundry in Yountville and Alinea in Chicago.
Make Your Own Steak Pie
If you can’t find steak pie in stores or restaurants, you can always try making your own. Making steak pie from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience, and it allows you to customize the filling and crust to your liking. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef stew meat
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a large pan, cook the beef and onion over medium-high heat until the beef is browned.
- Add the garlic, flour, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
- Spoon the beef mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Place the puff pastry over the beef mixture and trim the edges to fit.
- Crimp the edges of the pastry to seal the pie.
- Cut a few slits in the top of the pie to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top of the pie with a little bit of milk or beaten egg.
- Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the perfect steak pie:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The key to a great steak pie is using high-quality ingredients, including tender beef and flaky pastry.
- Experiment with different fillings: While traditional steak pie is made with beef and onion, you can experiment with different fillings, such as chicken and mushroom or lamb and rosemary.
- Use a variety of spices: Steak pie is a great opportunity to experiment with different spices and seasonings. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of paprika to give your pie a unique flavor.
- Make individual pies: If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to serve steak pie, try making individual pies. Simply spoon the beef mixture into small ramekins or muffin tins, top with puff pastry, and bake until golden brown.
Conclusion
While steak pie may not be as widely popular in America as it is in the UK, there are still many places where you can find this delicious treat. Whether you’re looking for a traditional British steak pie or a modern variation, there are plenty of options to choose from. And if you can’t find steak pie in stores or restaurants, you can always try making your own. With a little bit of creativity and experimentation, you can create a steak pie that’s all your own.
What is a traditional steak pie in the UK?
A traditional steak pie in the UK is a type of savory pastry filled with slow-cooked beef, typically made with chunks of beefsteak and gravy. The filling is usually made with a mixture of beef, onions, and sometimes other vegetables, cooked in a rich beef broth. The pastry crust is typically made with a hot water crust pastry, which is a type of pastry that is made with hot water and is often used for savory pies.
The traditional steak pie is a staple of British cuisine, particularly in Scotland and the North of England. It is often served as a main course, accompanied by mashed potatoes and vegetables. The pie is also a popular choice for pub lunches and is often served with a side of chips (fries) or salad.
Is steak pie popular in America?
Steak pie is not as widely known or popular in America as it is in the UK. However, it can be found on the menus of some British-style pubs and restaurants, particularly in areas with a large British expat community. Some American restaurants may also offer their own version of steak pie, made with a different type of pastry or filling.
Despite its relative lack of popularity, steak pie is still a beloved dish among many Americans who have tried it. Some American food bloggers and writers have even written about their experiences trying steak pie for the first time, and how it has become a favorite comfort food.
Can I find steak pie in American supermarkets?
It is unlikely to find traditional steak pie in American supermarkets, as it is not a commonly stocked item. However, some specialty stores or British import shops may carry frozen or pre-made steak pies. These pies may not be made with the same ingredients or cooking methods as traditional UK steak pies, but they can still be a convenient option for those looking to try the dish.
Some American supermarkets may also carry pre-made pie crusts or savory pie fillings that can be used to make a homemade steak pie. These ingredients can be a good starting point for those looking to try their hand at making a traditional steak pie.
How does American steak pie differ from the UK version?
American steak pie may differ from the UK version in several ways. One of the main differences is the type of pastry used. American steak pies may be made with a flaky pastry crust, similar to a pot pie, rather than the hot water crust pastry used in traditional UK steak pies.
Another difference is the filling. American steak pies may be made with a different type of beef, such as ground beef or beef strips, rather than the chunks of beefsteak used in traditional UK pies. The filling may also be seasoned with different spices or herbs, giving the pie a unique flavor.
Can I make a traditional steak pie at home?
Yes, it is possible to make a traditional steak pie at home. The key is to use high-quality ingredients, including chunks of beefsteak and a rich beef broth. The pastry crust can be made from scratch using a hot water crust pastry recipe, or store-bought puff pastry can be used as a substitute.
To make a traditional steak pie, start by cooking the beef and vegetables in a rich beef broth until the meat is tender. Then, make the pastry crust and fill it with the beef mixture. The pie can be baked in the oven until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
What are some variations of steak pie?
There are several variations of steak pie that can be found in the UK and other countries. One popular variation is the steak and kidney pie, which is made with chunks of beef and kidney. Another variation is the steak and mushroom pie, which is made with sautéed mushrooms and onions.
Some recipes may also call for different types of pastry or fillings, such as a puff pastry crust or a filling made with ground beef and vegetables. These variations can offer a unique twist on the traditional steak pie recipe.
Is steak pie a comfort food?
Yes, steak pie is often considered a comfort food in the UK and other countries. The rich, savory filling and flaky pastry crust make it a satisfying and comforting meal. The pie is often associated with warm, cozy feelings and is a popular choice for cold winter nights or special occasions.
The comfort food aspect of steak pie is also due to its nostalgic value. Many people have fond memories of eating steak pie as children, and the dish is often served at family gatherings and holidays. The combination of the hearty filling and flaky pastry crust makes steak pie a beloved comfort food around the world.