Mary Berry Humble Pie Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a heartwarming, comforting dish to brighten up your dinner table, Mary Berry’s Humble Pie recipe is definitely worth trying. With its rich, flavorful filling and perfectly golden crust, this recipe takes the classic pie to the next level while keeping things simple and accessible.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, Mary Berry’s step-by-step instructions ensure that you’ll end up with a pie that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion, bringing a taste of homemade goodness that everyone will love!.

Mary Berry Humble Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To prepare Mary Berry’s Humble Pie, you’ll need a selection of simple yet wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully, delivering a rich, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of flavor and texture, while staying grounded in its traditional roots.

• For The Pie Crust

  • 250g plain flour – This will form the base of the pastry, providing the delicate, buttery texture needed for the crust.
  • 125g cold butter – Cold butter is key to achieving a flaky, tender crust. The butter should be cut into small cubes before mixing.
  • A pinch of salt – To enhance the flavor of the crust, a small amount of salt is included.
  • Cold water – Only a few tablespoons are needed, just enough to bring the dough together without making it too sticky or wet.

• For The Filling

  • 500g minced beef – The heart of the filling, minced beef is used to create a flavorful, savory base. The richness of the beef melds perfectly with the other ingredients.
  • 1 onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the pie. It’s important to finely chop the onion so it cooks down well with the beef.
  • 1 large carrot, grated – Grating the carrot ensures it softens quickly and integrates nicely with the filling, adding a subtle sweetness and a touch of color.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic adds an aromatic kick that enhances the overall savory profile.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato puree – For depth and richness, tomato puree brings a concentrated flavor to the filling.
  • 250ml beef stock – Beef stock infuses the filling with an extra layer of meaty flavor, making it even more satisfying.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – A dash of Worcestershire sauce adds umami and a slight tang, bringing all the flavors together.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme – For herby earthiness that complements the beef filling.
  • Salt and pepper – Essential to season the dish and balance out the flavors.

• For Topping

  • Mashed potatoes – Mary Berry’s Humble Pie is traditionally topped with creamy mashed potatoes, which form the comforting crown of the pie. You’ll need about 750g of potatoes, peeled and boiled until tender, ready to be mashed with butter and a splash of milk.

Equipment Needed

Creating Mary Berry’s Humble Pie requires some essential kitchen tools, both for the pastry preparation and the meat filling. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowl – A large bowl for making the pastry dough and mixing together the beef filling ingredients.
• Pastry Cutter or Two Knives – These tools are useful for cutting the butter into the flour when making the pie crust, ensuring the butter remains cold and the texture stays flaky.
• Rolling Pin – To roll out the pie dough to the correct thickness for the base and lid.
• Frying Pan or Skillet – For cooking the beef filling. It should be large enough to hold the meat and vegetables comfortably while allowing them to brown.
• Pie Dish – A round, shallow pie dish works best for this recipe. A diameter of around 23cm (9 inches) is ideal for the size of the pie.
• Pot for Boiling Potatoes – A medium-sized pot to boil the potatoes for the mashed topping.
• Potato Masher – A simple tool to mash the boiled potatoes until they are smooth and fluffy.
• Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the filling, and for spreading the mashed potatoes on top of the pie filling.
• Sharp Knife – For chopping onions, garlic, carrots, and any other vegetables used in the recipe.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Humble Pie

Creating this classic dish requires a little patience and attention to detail, but the end result is a comforting, flavorful pie that everyone will enjoy. Here’s how to make it step by step:

1. Prepare The Pastry

   Start by making the pie crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour and a pinch of salt.

   Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter (or two knives) to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Then, slowly add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.

   Handle the dough gently and avoid overworking it. Once it forms a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

2. Make The Filling

   While the dough chills, prepare the filling. Heat a large frying pan over medium heat, and add a splash of oil.

   Brown the minced beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once browned, remove the meat and set it aside.

   In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onion, grated carrot, and minced garlic until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the tomato puree and cook for another 2 minutes.

   Then, return the beef to the pan and pour in the beef stock. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

   Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, until thickened and flavorful. If the filling becomes too thick, you can add a little more stock or water to adjust the consistency.

3. Prepare The Mashed Potatoes

   While the filling simmers, peel and chop the potatoes into even-sized chunks. Boil them in salted water for around 10-15 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

   Drain the potatoes, then mash them with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble The Pie

   Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a lightly floured surface, and line the base of your pie dish with it.

   Press the dough into the corners and trim any excess. Pour the beef filling into the pastry shell, spreading it out evenly.

   Carefully spoon the mashed potatoes on top of the filling, spreading it with a spoon to cover the entire surface. For a decorative touch, use a fork to create a pattern on top of the mashed potatoes.

5. Bake The Pie

   Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy. If you want an extra golden color, you can brush the mashed potatoes with a little melted butter before baking.

Expert Tips

• Keep the Pastry Cold: When making the pastry dough, always work with cold ingredients. This helps to create a flaky texture and prevents the butter from melting too quickly. You can even chill the mixing bowl or the flour before starting the recipe for an extra boost.

• Customize the Filling: While this recipe calls for minced beef, you can easily swap it out for other meats, such as lamb, chicken, or even a combination of vegetables for a vegetarian version. Adding mushrooms or peas to the filling can also enhance its flavor and texture.

• Make Ahead: Mary Berry’s Humble Pie can be prepared in advance. You can make both the filling and the mashed potatoes ahead of time, then assemble and bake the pie just before serving. Leftovers also store well in the fridge for a couple of days or can be frozen for a later meal.

• Use Stock for Extra Flavor: Homemade beef stock will elevate the flavor of the filling. If using store-bought stock, try to choose one with low sodium to control the salt content in the dish.

• Golden Mashed Potato Top: For an even more decadent finish, you can sprinkle a little grated cheese over the mashed potatoes before baking. The cheese will melt and crisp up, adding extra richness and flavor.

Mary Berry’s Humble Pie is the epitome of comfort food, blending rich, savory flavors with the warmth and satisfaction of a homemade pie. Whether you’re looking for a dish to serve on a cozy evening or to impress guests at a dinner party, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

The flaky pastry, hearty beef filling, and creamy mashed potato topping create a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that are sure to please everyone around the table. By following the steps and tips outlined here, you can bring this British classic to life in your own kitchen. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of your Humble Pie!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Humble Pie

Mary Berry’s Humble Pie is a comforting, classic British dish that often evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia with its hearty filling and golden, buttery crust. While the traditional recipe is simple and delicious, there are many variations that can take the dish to new heights or cater to different dietary preferences. Here are some easy and creative variations you can try:

1. Vegetarian Humble Pie

For those who prefer a plant-based version, you can substitute the meat with a combination of hearty vegetables and legumes. A mix of lentils, carrots, peas, and mushrooms makes for an excellent filling.

The earthy flavor of the lentils pairs wonderfully with a savory vegetable broth. You can also add chopped spinach or kale for extra color and nutrition. If you want to add more depth, a few tablespoons of tomato paste or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can elevate the flavor profile, giving it the rich, umami taste that typically comes from meat.

2. Chicken And Leek Humble Pie

A lighter variation of the classic, the chicken and leek humble pie is a flavorful option for those who want something less rich than beef. Use diced chicken breast or thighs, which cook quickly and remain tender.

Sautéed leeks give the pie a slightly sweet, aromatic flavor, and you can even add a handful of peas for a pop of color and texture. For the filling, make a creamy sauce with chicken stock, a touch of cream, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley. This combination results in a comforting dish with a delightful, mild flavor.

3. Cottage Pie With Sweet Potatoes

A twist on the classic humble pie is the sweet potato topping. This version gives the dish a slightly sweeter and earthier flavor, while still keeping the comfort and richness of the original.

Boil and mash the sweet potatoes just like regular potatoes and spread them on top of the meat filling. For the filling, ground lamb or beef, along with onions, carrots, and peas, is a hearty mix. You can add a little cheese into the sweet potatoes before spreading them over the filling for an added layer of creaminess and flavor.

4. Steak And Ale Humble Pie

For a more decadent and rich variation, consider adding beer to the mix. In this version, the beef filling is cooked with a good-quality ale or stout, which gives the dish a deep, malty flavor.

The beer pairs beautifully with slow-cooked beef, onions, and mushrooms. For a heartier bite, you can even add some root vegetables like parsnips or turnips to the filling. The crust, golden and crisp, is perfect for scooping up the flavorful, gravy-infused filling inside.

5. Mushroom And Blue Cheese Humble Pie

For a gourmet twist, swap the meat for earthy mushrooms and a tangy blue cheese. This vegetarian version relies on the bold flavors of the mushrooms and cheese to bring depth to the dish.

The richness of the blue cheese contrasts beautifully with the umami flavors of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and onions. To balance the strong flavors, a little bit of cream or crème fraîche in the filling will add smoothness. This is a great alternative for those looking for something more luxurious and savory.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers from your humble pie allows you to enjoy it later while maintaining its delicious flavors and texture. Here are some essential tips to ensure your humble pie stays fresh and tasty for the next meal:

1. Allow The Pie To Cool Completely

Before storing your leftover humble pie, make sure to let it cool down to room temperature. Storing a hot pie will cause condensation, which could affect the texture and make the crust soggy. Cooling it first ensures that the pie maintains its integrity and prevents any unwanted moisture buildup.

2. Refrigeration

Once the pie is cool, you can store it in the fridge. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container.

Properly stored, humble pie can last for up to 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, be sure to do so thoroughly to ensure food safety.

3. Freezing For Long-Term Storage

If you don’t think you’ll finish the pie within a few days, freezing is a great option. To freeze humble pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

You can also place it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe ziplock bag. For best results, freeze the pie before it’s baked.

This way, when you’re ready to eat it, you can bake it from frozen, ensuring the crust stays crisp and golden. The pie can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

4. Reheating Leftovers

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, there are several ways to reheat the humble pie:

• In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil to prevent the crust from burning. Heat for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
• In the Microwave: If you’re in a rush, you can use the microwave. Place a slice of the pie on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short bursts, 1-2 minutes at a time, checking the temperature until it’s hot throughout. The crust might not be as crisp, but the filling will remain flavorful.

What Goes Well With Humble Pie

While Mary Berry’s humble pie is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal, bringing in additional flavors and textures that complement the hearty filling. Here are a few options that go beautifully with this comforting dish:

1. Green Vegetables

The richness of humble pie pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp greens. Consider serving the pie with sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or buttered peas.

These veggies offer a light, fresh contrast to the heavy, savory pie filling, balancing out the meal. If you want a bit more crunch, a simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing will provide brightness and acidity to cut through the richness.

2. Roasted Root Vegetables

For a rustic touch, roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and turnips work exceptionally well with humble pie. The natural sweetness of these vegetables complements the savory filling of the pie. Roasting them with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and rosemary will bring out their earthy flavors and add texture to your meal.

3. Mashed Potatoes

If you’re craving extra comfort, mashed potatoes are a classic choice. Their creamy, buttery texture pairs well with the hearty filling of the humble pie.

You can infuse them with flavors like garlic, chives, or even cheese to enhance the experience. Alternatively, a serving of creamy mashed cauliflower can provide a lighter, low-carb option.

4. Gravy

While the pie filling itself is typically rich and savory, a rich gravy can make a fantastic accompaniment, adding moisture and depth to the meal. You can use the same meat-based stock used in the pie or a flavorful vegetarian gravy for a lighter alternative.

5. Pickles Or Chutneys

The acidity of pickles or chutneys can provide a sharp contrast to the richness of the humble pie, adding an extra layer of flavor. A tangy, sweet onion chutney or a simple jar of pickled gherkins can offer a delightful contrast that cuts through the heaviness of the dish.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s humble pie is a quintessential comfort food that offers endless opportunities for personalization, from traditional meat fillings to modern, vegetarian twists. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or opt for one of the many variations, the humble pie remains a versatile and satisfying dish that is sure to warm both your heart and your stomach.

Storing leftovers is simple, and with the right tips, you can enjoy this hearty meal for days to come. Pairing it with complementary sides, like fresh greens, roasted vegetables, or a rich gravy, ensures that every bite is a complete and comforting experience. Whether served as a family meal or for a casual dinner, humble pie is always a crowd-pleaser-filling, flavorful, and timeless.

FAQs

What Is Mary Berry’s Humble Pie Recipe?

Mary Berry’s humble pie is a comforting, hearty dish typically made with a flavorful combination of ground meat, vegetables, and a rich gravy. The dish is topped with a golden, crispy mashed potato layer, making it a perfect family meal. Mary Berry’s recipe often includes the option to add ingredients like mushrooms or peas to enhance the flavor.

Can I Use Beef Instead Of Lamb In Mary Berry’s Humble Pie?

Yes, you can substitute beef for lamb in Mary Berry’s humble pie recipe. While lamb is traditional, beef works just as well, providing a slightly different flavor. Ground beef or even a mix of beef and pork can be used depending on your preference.

What Type Of Potatoes Should I Use For The Topping?

For the mashed potato topping, it’s recommended to use starchy potatoes such as Maris Piper or Russet potatoes. These varieties will give you a smooth, fluffy mash, which is ideal for creating a crisp, golden topping when baked.

How Can I Make The Filling Vegetarian?

To make the humble pie vegetarian, replace the meat with a mixture of vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas. You can also add vegetable broth and seasonings to create a rich and flavorful filling. Mary Berry’s recipe can easily be adapted by using plant-based substitutes.

Can I Prepare Mary Berry’s Humble Pie In Advance?

Yes, Mary Berry’s humble pie can be prepared in advance. You can make the filling and the mashed potato topping separately, then assemble and refrigerate the dish. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven until heated through and the topping is golden and crispy.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Humble Pie?

Mary Berry’s humble pie is often served with a side of vegetables or a simple green salad. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or even a light gravy to complement the rich and savory filling.

How Long Does Mary Berry’s Humble Pie Take To Cook?

The total cooking time for Mary Berry’s humble pie is usually around 45-60 minutes. This includes both the cooking time for the filling and the baking time to crisp up the mashed potato topping. If you’re using a pre-cooked filling, the time may be slightly shorter.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Humble Pie?

Yes, Mary Berry’s humble pie can be frozen. After assembling the pie, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze. When you’re ready to eat it, defrost the pie overnight in the fridge, then bake it until it’s hot throughout.

What Is The Best Way To Reheat Leftovers?

To reheat leftovers of Mary Berry’s humble pie, it’s best to place it in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the pie for about 20-30 minutes until the filling is hot and the topping is crisp.

Is There A Way To Make The Pie Gluten-free?

To make Mary Berry’s humble pie gluten-free, simply substitute the flour in the filling with a gluten-free flour or cornstarch. Additionally, make sure the mashed potatoes are prepared without any butter or milk containing gluten. You can also use a gluten-free gravy mix if needed.