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One Pie Doesn’t Fit All
Pies aren’t just for dessert anymore. In fact, they never were. Did you know ancient Romans made savory poultry and ham pies? While the very first pie was probably more of a galette filled with honey, originating way back in ancient Egypt, by the Medieval era pie was a common, savory dinner. Meat pies and fish pies were actually the most typical type of pie until the 15th century, when fruit pies––especially quince or pear—became popular.
In the U.S., early pies were filled with venison and turkey, but by the early 1900s Americans were filling them with all sorts of fruits, and of course pumpkin. Today, we have chocolate pies, key lime pie, French silk and on and on. Pie is regional in the U.S. The Midwest eats a lot of apple, the South a lot of pecan. When it comes to sweet and savory pies, there’s a pie for every taste and occasion.
Sweet Pies – Classic Comforts & Festive Favorites
We eat pie year-round, from summer BBQs to cozy nights in front of the fire. But perhaps they’re most associated with Thanksgiving. Whether you’re a fan of pumpkin or pecan (or both!) one of the two is a staple at most Thanksgiving tables. Apple pie evokes comfort, crunchy fall leaves and Americana. Key lime screams warm weather. For many, cherry or strawberry pie are summer treats served with vanilla ice cream and eaten outside. Pie is a labor of love, and a dessert that people don’t eat every day, so it always feels a little festive. Whatever sweet filling you’re into, there’s not really a wrong answer when it comes to serving pie as dessert.
Savory Pies – Hearty, Comforting, and Unexpected
Is there anything cozier than a chicken pot pie? While Brits eat savory pies on the regular, it’s unexpected in the U.S., and therefore a delightful thing to serve. Go classic with a Shepherd’s pie or chicken pot pie, or opt for a––slightly lighter––vegetable pie.
A great thing about savory pies is that they can feed a crowd. They’re a meal in a dish. Bust out a pot pie for family dinner or wow a crowd with a savory pie selection. They’re the perfect thing to serve at Thanksgiving, the ultimate pie holiday. Your guests might be expecting sweet pies, but you can be unique and surprise them with a turkey pie instead.
Technically, quiche is a pie. That means pie is also a brunch food. Is there anything this dish can’t be? Savory pies are more versatile than sweet pies and a great choice for almost any occasion.
How to Choose the Right Pie for the Occasion
Need sweet and savory pie ideas? If you’re hosting a winter holiday feast you’ll want something cozy and classic. You can’t go wrong with pumpkin and pecan, the sweet holiday pie heroes. Apple is another all-season contender. For savory, a turkey pot pie instantly feels festive.
Summer is when produce shines, so opt for berry pies that showcase the fruit. Vegetable galettes are another way to showcase summer produce on the savory side. Either a sweet or savory summer pie—or let’s be real, both––are great for backyard parties, picnics, or summer events like graduation parties and even weddings.
Quiche is a perfect brunch food. It’s substantial enough to be an entire meal, served with a side of fruit. It’s easy to share, and there are tons of combinations for meat lovers, vegetarians, food allergies, you name it.
If you’re hosting a large event where people might be standing with their plates, opt for hand pies. These self-contained pies can be sweet or savory and can even be made in tiny sizes perfect for cocktail hour.
Finally, there are the showstopper pies. The chocolate pies, the French silk, the key lime, or lemon meringue, or even banana cream! If you’re celebrating something, go for one of these with a ‘wow’ factor.
Where to Order Sweet & Savory Pies
Different regions of the U.S. feel strongly about their pie, and take pride in regional specialties. The Northwest is apple pie territory, while the Midwest is for cherry pie. The South specializes in all things pecan, peach pie, and sweet potato pie, which you don’t see in much of the rest of the country.
You can even get more specific, like chocolate babka pie in New York City, blueberry pie in Maine, and huckleberry pie in Montana. We’re a pie-loving country with the dozens of variations of regional pies to prove it. In the sweet vs savory pie debate, everyone’s a winner. And the great news? You don’t even need to take a flight to taste them. Try them all with nationwide delivery.
Read More: America’s Favorite Pie Flavors by Region
There’s a type of pie for everything. From breakfast to dessert, casual hangs to fancy celebrations, there’s a pie that fits the moment. Find your perfect pie match on Goldbelly.
