In an age of protein bars and superfood smoothies, the humble pie has sometimes been unfairly treated.
While trendy snacks come and go, pies have sustained generations of Brits for centuries.
Today, with Britons consuming £1 billion worth of pies each year (not including those lovingly made in home kitchens), these traditional favorites are enjoying a well-deserved renaissance as people rediscover the value of proper, healthy food(1).
Simon Bryon-Edmond, founder and CEO of award-winning pie maker Chunk of Devon, believes it’s time to celebrate pies for what they really are – “the honest food that fed an empire and kept Britain going”.
“Our parents and grandparents didn’t build Britain on sugary drinks or energy bars – they did it on pies! Butter, lard and fluff are the masters of real nutrition and provide the kind of energy you need to conquer the world,” says Simon. “After all, the ancient Romans didn’t fuel their empire with energy drinks – they ate the precursors to the pies we enjoy today.”
During his 18 years at the helm of Chunk, Simon has developed an unerring ability to guess anyone’s favorite pie based on any clothing choices and hobbies. “Each pie choice tells a story about its eater,” he explains. “From traditionalists who swear by classic combinations to adventurous souls looking for new flavors, your perfect pie match may be more obvious than you think.”
But can your personality really predict your perfect pie? Simon believes it can even reveal more about you than your horoscope. “Your pie choice frees your soul!”, she says. Here’s her guide to matching personalities with their ideal pie partners:
A traditionalist
You know them for their unwavering confidence in what they like – whether it’s a flat cap and wellies or a beanie and retro sneakers. These are souls who value consistency and believe that some things simply shouldn’t be messed with. They know the best table in their local pub, have strong opinions about a proper Sunday roast and value the timeless over the trendy. Their perfect match? A classic Steak & Ale pie.
“These recipes have stood the test of time,” notes Simon. “High-quality beef, rich ale sauce and buttery pastry – it’s British comfort food at its best. And let’s not forget Steak & Kidney, once the king of pies, is making a proper comeback.
Sophisticated countryside
Someone who can walk through muddy fields and somehow emerge looking stylish. They want balanced flavors, a touch of elegance and plenty of nostalgia. They often pair their pie with a crisp white wine after a brisk country walk. Their perfect match is the Chicken, Leek and Bacon Pie – a sophisticated twist on comfort food.
“This is not just a pie – it’s a way of life. A silky leek is like adding a scarf to an already gorgeous outfit. And that creamy filling? It is country food at its most elegant. Magical interplay of bacon, double cream and a mixture of breast and thigh… What’s not to love?”
Farm Shop Foodie
You’ll spot them hovering near the chutney aisle or debating the merits of aged Cheddar. They know every producer at the market by name and can tell you the exact weekend to hunt for wild garlic. Their cookbook collection is expertly curated, and their Instagram feed looks like a rustic food magazine. For those discerning souls, the traditional pork pie is perfect, served with the finest homemade piccalillis.
“These people have strong opinions about the great pork pie debate: jelly or no jelly? Dispute forever,” says Simon. “True food lovers will appreciate these subtle variations that make each recipe unique.”
Adventurous taste seeker
These are culinary explorers who traverse the city to open a new restaurant, always ordering the most intriguing item on the menu. Their spice rack is a thing of beauty and their friends rely on them for restaurant recommendations. They are the first to try fusion cuisine and the last to say no to unusual ingredients. Their perfect matches? Bold creations such as chicken curry, oriental duck or beef and oyster pie.
“These pioneers of the pie keep us on our toes,” notes Simon. “They try anything once and probably go back for seconds. They make pies evolve in ways we never imagined—they’re the rebels of the baking world. After all, every classic pie started as someone’s experiment.”
Gourmet
If you’re dreaming of Venison & Port, you’re probably in Gourmet territory. These pie connoisseurs know their wine and can explain the difference between French and English butter. When others see a meal, they see a composition of flavors, textures, and possibilities. Their kitchen is their sanctuary and they approach cooking with equal precision and passion. Their ideal match? Refined Venison & Port with bacon and mushrooms.
“It’s about layering the flavors,” Simon explains. “The richness of the venison, the depth of the port and the savory flavors of the bacon and mushrooms create a pie that is both rich and refined – a true celebration of British ingredients.”
Plant-based pioneer
Who says pie crust is only for meat lovers? Plant-Based Pioneer is here to rewrite the pie playbook with mouth-watering options like a Moroccan-inspired Veggie Tagine and other meatless wonders. They can tell you the best places for seasonal produce, they’ve mastered the art of meatless cooking and love introducing skeptics to innovative plant-based dishes.
“The rise of veganism and flexible living has changed the game. Sure, there’s been silliness – bloody veggie burgers come to mind – but when it’s done right, it’s sublime. A hearty mushroom stew or a Ruby Murray veggie curry in a pie? It’s comfort food at its best, and often my favorite ”, says Simon.
Simon’s favorite
Now that we’ve gotten to know a few pie-dentities, where does Simon land?
“For me it has to be a Steak & Stilton pie. I love how the Stilton complements the rich steak filling – the umami of the mushrooms, the spiciness of the Stilton and the quality beef create something that always feels a little bit special,” says Simon.
“I think that puts me firmly in the Gourmet category. Stilton has a distinct flavor, and I think it says, “I enjoy an indulgence, but I still love the comforting, rich nature of a good pie.” It’s the perfect balance between boldness and tradition, and it never fails. And yes, I definitely pair it with a glass of red wine – because why not?”
Simon’s selection reflects Chunk of Devon’s ethos – celebrating timeless recipes while enjoying moments of indulgence. Whether you’re a plant-based pioneer or a rural sophisticate, Simon’s philosophy is simple: there’s a pie for everyone, and the joy is finding your match.
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