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Our Harvest Season Pie Pairing Guide
There's a certain moment every year when the nights draw in, the jumpers come out of storage, and somebody, somewhere, utters the sacred words: "ooh, it's a bit pie weather, isn't it?" Welcome, one and all, to pie season - the most delicious time of the calendar, when comfort food goes from "nice idea" to "national duty."
But here's the thing: a great pie deserves a great sidekick. A pie without the right sides is like a Sunday without a nap, or salt without pepper - technically fine, but missing something. So we've put together the definitive pie pairing guide, matching each of our flavour-packed pies with the side dishes that do them justice. Let's get stuck in!!
Chicken, Leek & Bacon Pie: A Match Made in Comfort Heaven
Smoky and creamy - this pie feels like a warm hug in pastry form! It doesn't need shouty sides; it needs sides that know when to sit back and let the pie shine.
- Creamy mash - obviously. This is a non-negotiable, load-bearing pillar of pie season.
- Buttered seasonal greens - a bit of green cuts through the creaminess nicely (and lets you pretend it's a healthy dinner)!
Pairing tip: A light gravy poured generously over the top turns this from "dinner" into "an occasion."
Original Chicken, Leek & Bacon Pie | Gluten Free Chicken, Leek & Bacon Pie
Chicken, Mushroom & Tarragon Pie: Elegant, But Still Comfort Food
This one's got a bit more finesse… earthy mushrooms, that unmistakable aniseed lift from the tarragon! It's the pie equivalent of turning up to a barbecue in a blazer: smart, but still very much here for a good time. What would we have with it?!
- Dauphinoise potatoes - (who doesn't love a Dauphinoise?!) thin, buttery, garlicky layers of potato that match the pie's slightly fancier energy.
- Roasted seasonal veg - carrots, parsnips, whatever's looking good at the greengrocer's — roasted until the edges go a bit caramelised and crispy.
Pairing tip: A splash of white wine or tarragon gravy will make this feel properly restaurant-worthy, without the pub grub bill! Oooh-err!
Original Chicken, Mushroom & Tarragon Pie | Gluten Free Chicken, Mushroom & Tarragon Pie
Steak & Ale Pie: The Heavyweight Champion
Rich, dark, deeply savoury, this is the pie equivalent of a firm handshake. It's built for cold evenings, big appetites, and sides that can hold their own against all that gorgeous ale-y gravy.
- Mash - a classic for a reason. Let the ale gravy pool into it and don't say a word, just eat.
- Buttered greens or seasonal veg - cabbage, kale, or sprouts (yes, already!!) bring a bit of bite against all that richness.
- A deep beef gravy – Always a must for steak-based pies!
Pairing tip: Extra gravy is never a crime. It's basically a topping, not a condiment, at this point!!
Steak & Kidney Pie: The Traditionalist's Favourite
Deep, hearty, unapologetically old-school, this is the pie your granddad would nod approvingly at. Treat it with respect and pair it with sides that are equally no-nonsense.
- Cauliflower cheese - brings a creamy, cheesy contrast that plays beautifully against the richness of the kidney.
Pairing tip: if in doubt... always add more gravy!
Steak & Kidney | GF Steak & Kidney
The Golden Rules of Pie Season Sides
Whatever pie you're going for, a few general rules always apply:
- Gravy is mandatory, not optional. We don't make the rules. Actually, we sort of do, and the rule is: more gravy.
- Mash is always a good option! When in doubt, go carb-heavy. It's basically self-care when it’s cold outside.
- A bit of green veg earns you bonus points. Balance is important, even in pie season (allegedly).
- Cauliflower cheese pairs with more than you'd think. Don't box it in to Christmas-time. Let it live its best life next to almost any pie!!
Final Thoughts: Get Your Pie Pairing Sorted
As the weather turns and jumper season officially becomes pie season, there's never been a better excuse to properly plan your pie and sides combo. Whether you're all about the classic steak and ale pie with chunky chips, or keeping things a little lighter with homity pie and a crisp salad, the right side dish makes a good pie into a genuinely great meal.
And if you're like us and can't wait for pie season to get in full swing... we have exciting news for you!! We're developing CHUNK SIDES which will be ready very soon and we can't wait!
Yep, soon the convenience of a pie night will be even easier!!
So pick your pie, choose your sides, and get that gravy boat ready. Pie season waits for no one!!
Go on – Take a Chunk!