What To Serve With Meat Pies

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Meat Pies

Meat pies are a delicious and fulfilling dish that can be enjoyed on various occasions. When it comes to complementing meat pies with side dishes, there are several options that can elevate the overall dining experience. Here are some fantastic side dishes that pair perfectly with meat pies:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that complements meat pies exceptionally well. The smooth texture of the potatoes contrasts nicely with the flaky pastry and savory filling of the pie.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, can add a healthy and flavorful element to your meal. The caramelized edges of the vegetables provide a delightful crunch alongside the meat pie.

3. Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing can help cut through the richness of the meat pie, providing a light and refreshing contrast. Opt for a mix of crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a well-rounded meal.

4. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots offers a satisfying crunch that pairs nicely with the soft texture of a meat pie. The hint of acidity in the dressing can enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

5. Garlic Bread: Warm and garlicky bread is a comforting side dish that perfectly complements the hearty flavors of a meat pie. The aroma of freshly baked bread can add an extra layer of indulgence to your meal.

6. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans can provide a delicious contrast to the savory meat filling of the pie. The rich tomato-based sauce of the beans adds depth of flavor to the dish.

7. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus, offer a simple yet nutritious side dish option. The vibrant colors and natural sweetness of the vegetables can enhance the visual appeal of your meal.

By pairing your meat pie with any of these side dishes, you can create a well-balanced and satisfying dining experience that will surely impress your guests. Experiment with different combinations to discover your favorite way to enjoy meat pies with complementary sides.

Vegetarian Options to Accompany Meat Pies

When it comes to serving meat pies, there’s no need for vegetarians to feel left out. There are plenty of delicious vegetarian side dishes that pair perfectly with meat pies, enhancing the overall dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider when serving meat pies to vegetarian guests or for those looking to enjoy a meat-free meal.

One of the classic vegetarian side dishes that complement meat pies wonderfully is a fresh garden salad. A mix of crisp lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and colorful bell peppers can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty richness of the meat pie. You can top it off with a zesty vinaigrette or a creamy ranch dressing to tie all the flavors together.

For a more substantial accompaniment, roasted seasonal vegetables are an excellent choice. Roasting vegetables like carrots, zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers caramelizes their natural sugars, giving them a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of a meat pie. Seasoned with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano, roasted vegetables can elevate a simple meat pie meal into a gourmet experience.

Another vegetarian option that complements meat pies is a creamy mashed potato. Velvety smooth mashed potatoes provide a comforting and familiar side dish that enhances the heartiness of the meat pie. You can add a twist to traditional mashed potatoes by incorporating roasted garlic, sharp cheddar cheese, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra depth of flavor.

A tangy coleslaw alongside a meat pie can also be a delightful choice. The crisp texture and zesty dressing of coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the dense pastry and meat filling of the pie. You can customize your coleslaw by adding ingredients like shredded red cabbage, grated carrots, sliced apples, or a hint of Dijon mustard for a unique twist.

To add a touch of international flair to your meat pie meal, consider serving a side of falafel with tahini sauce. These Middle Eastern chickpea patties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavorful spices like cumin, coriander, and garlic. Pairing falafel with a creamy tahini sauce provides a creamy and nutty component that complements the savory richness of the meat pie.

Whether you’re catering to vegetarians or simply looking to add variety to your meat pie meal, these vegetarian side dishes offer a range of flavors and textures that can elevate your dining experience. By incorporating these delicious options into your menu, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that will delight all your guests, regardless of their dietary preferences.

Sauces and Condiments that Complement Meat Pies

When it comes to enjoying meat pies, selecting the right sauces and condiments can elevate the taste experience to a whole new level. Whether you are indulging in a classic beef pie, a flavorful chicken pie, or a savory pork pie, the right sauce or condiment can truly enhance the flavors. Here are some popular choices to consider:

1. Tomato Chutney: The sweet and tangy flavor of tomato chutney pairs wonderfully with meat pies. The combination of juicy tomatoes, spices, and a hint of sweetness adds a delightful contrast to the rich and savory filling of the pie.

2. HP Sauce: A British classic, HP Sauce is a bold and tangy brown sauce that complements the hearty flavors of meat pies. Its unique blend of vinegar, tomatoes, dates, and tamarind can add a zesty kick to each bite.

3. Mint Sauce: If you are serving lamb pies, mint sauce is a must-try accompaniment. The refreshing taste of mint cuts through the richness of the lamb, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that is simply irresistible.

4. Mustard: Whether you prefer classic yellow mustard, Dijon, or wholegrain mustard, this condiment adds a sharp and tangy flavor that can enhance the taste of meat pies. Mustard is particularly delicious with beef and pork pies.

5. Garlic Aioli: Creamy and garlicky, aioli is a versatile condiment that can bring a touch of Mediterranean flair to your meat pies. The subtle garlic flavor can complement a wide range of meat fillings, adding a creamy texture to each bite.

6. Barbecue Sauce: For those who enjoy a smoky and slightly sweet flavor profile, barbecue sauce is a popular choice to serve with meat pies. Whether you opt for a classic hickory barbecue sauce or a spicy chipotle variation, the savory notes can enhance the overall taste experience.

7. Cranberry Sauce: If you are looking for a festive twist, cranberry sauce can be a delightful accompaniment to meat pies, especially during the holiday season. The fruity and slightly tart flavor of cranberries can add a burst of freshness to each bite.

Choosing the right sauces and condiments can play a key role in enhancing the enjoyment of meat pies. Whether you prefer a classic pairing like tomato chutney or you want to experiment with unique flavors like garlic aioli, the key is to find combinations that complement the meat filling and elevate the overall taste experience. Next time you serve meat pies, don’t forget to explore these delicious sauce and condiment options to add an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

Salads that Go Well with Meat Pies

When it comes to serving meat pies, having the perfect salad to accompany them can elevate the entire meal experience. Salads provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of meat pies, making them an ideal side dish choice. Here are some delicious salad options that pair wonderfully with meat pies:

1. Classic Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots is a versatile option that complements the flavors of meat pies. You can customize it with your favorite dressing for an added burst of flavor.

2. Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that balance well with the hearty filling of meat pies. The tangy taste of the dressing adds a zesty kick to every bite.

3. Greek Salad: A Greek salad with feta cheese, olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions is a vibrant and flavorful choice to serve alongside meat pies. The briny feta cheese and Kalamata olives add a distinct Mediterranean flair to the meal.

4. Coleslaw: The creamy and slightly tangy coleslaw is a refreshing side dish that complements the rich flavor of meat pies. The crunch of the cabbage combined with the creamy dressing creates a satisfying contrast.

5. Tomato and Mozzarella Salad: This fresh and simple salad made with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves is a light and delicious accompaniment to meat pies. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or olive oil for extra flavor.

6. Spinach Salad: A spinach salad with strawberries, nuts, and a light vinaigrette dressing provides a sweet and savory contrast to meat pies. The combination of fresh spinach and sweet fruits creates a well-balanced dish.

These salad options offer a variety of flavors and textures that complement the savory goodness of meat pies. Whether you prefer a light and refreshing side or a more indulgent salad, there is a perfect choice to enhance your meat pie dining experience. So, next time you serve meat pies, consider one of these delicious salad options to complete your meal.

Beverage Pairing Ideas for Enjoying Meat Pies

Pairing the right beverage with your meat pie can enhance the overall dining experience. Whether you’re serving traditional meat pies like Australian meat pies, English pork pies, or savory hand pies, choosing the perfect drink can elevate the flavors and complement the dish. Here are some beverage pairing ideas to enjoy with your meat pies:

1. Beer: Beer is a classic pairing with meat pies due to its carbonation and flavor profiles that can cut through the richness of the pie. Opt for a cold, crisp lager or a malty ale to balance the savory filling of the pie.

2. Red Wine: A glass of red wine can be a delightful complement to meat pies, especially those with beef or game meats. Choose a medium to full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Shiraz to match the intensity of the flavors in the pie.

3. White Wine: If you prefer white wine, a Chardonnay or Viognier can pair well with chicken or seafood-based meat pies. The acidity and fruity notes in white wine can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory pie filling.

4. Cider: For a flavorful alternative, consider pairing your meat pie with a glass of cider. The crisp, apple notes in cider can complement the savory and sometimes spicy elements of the pie, offering a refreshing and fruity balance.

5. Whiskey or Bourbon: If you’re looking for a spirit to pair with your meat pie, whiskey or bourbon can be an excellent choice. The rich and smoky notes in whiskey can enhance the flavors of the meat pie and create a well-rounded dining experience.

6. Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, a cup of tea can be a comforting and versatile beverage to enjoy with meat pies. Choose black tea for a robust flavor or opt for herbal teas with floral or citrus notes to add a unique twist to your meal.

7. Soft Drinks: If you prefer a non-alcoholic carbonated beverage, cola or ginger beer can be excellent choices to pair with meat pies. The effervescence and sweetness of soft drinks can provide a pleasant contrast to the savory pie filling.

Pairing the right beverage with your meat pie can enhance the flavors and elevate your dining experience. Whether you prefer beer, wine, cider, spirits, tea, or soft drinks, there are plenty of options to complement the savory and delicious nature of meat pies. Experiment with different pairings to discover your favorite combination and enjoy a delightful meal with a perfectly matched beverage.

Conclusion

When it comes to deciding what to serve with meat pies, a variety of complementary options exist to enhance your dining experience. From classic side dishes like mashed potatoes and peas to more adventurous choices like sweet potato fries and roasted vegetables, there is a side that will suit everyone’s taste. For vegetarians, consider options such as a flavorful mixed green salad, grilled vegetables, or a creamy coleslaw to enjoy alongside your meat pie.

To elevate the flavors of your meat pie, consider adding a delicious sauce or condiment on the side. Whether you prefer traditional tomato ketchup, savory gravy, tangy mustard, or spicy sriracha, these condiments can take your meat pie to the next level. Additionally, salads can provide a refreshing and light counterpoint to the rich and savory flavors of a meat pie. Options like a classic Caesar salad, a fresh garden salad with vinaigrette, or a tangy coleslaw can balance out the meal perfectly.

When it comes to choosing a beverage to pair with your meat pie, the options are endless. For those who enjoy a classic choice, a cold beer or a glass of red wine can complement the hearty flavors of the pie. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider pairing your meat pie with a refreshing glass of iced tea, a fizzy soda, or a citrusy lemonade. Alternatively, you can opt for a warm cup of coffee or tea to round off your meal on a cozy note.

By exploring the best side dishes, vegetarian options, sauces and condiments, salads, and beverage pairings for meat pies, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. The key is to experiment with different combinations to find the ones that suit your palate and preferences. Whether you prefer classic pairings or more unique choices, there is a perfect accompaniment out there waiting to be discovered. Enjoy your meat pie with the perfect sides, sauces, salads, and beverages for a memorable meal every time.