Melton Mowbray pork pies are a beloved British delicacy. These hand-raised pies originate from Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire and have protected Geographical Indication status. They are revered for their rich pork filling encased in golden, flaky hot water crust pastry.
But what if you can’t finish your Melton Mowbray pork pie in one sitting? Can you freeze the leftovers? The good news is, yes you can freeze Melton Mowbray pork pies to enjoy later.
Freezing is a great way to prevent food waste and always have these tasty pies on hand. In this guide, learn the proper method for freezing and defrosting Melton Mowbray pork pies.
Why Freeze Melton Mowbray Pork Pies?
There are several benefits to freezing leftover Melton Mowbray pork pies
-
Prevents waste – Freezing extends shelf life so you can finish the entire pie later
-
Saves money – Stock up when on sale instead of buying frequently at full price.
-
Always on hand – Keep frozen pies ready for quick meals or entertaining guests.
-
Locks in freshness – Freezing preserves texture, flavor and quality.
-
Easy to portion – Freeze whole pies or individual slices to grab as needed.
-
No need to bake – Frozen pies just require reheating when you want one.
With proper freezing, you can enjoy Melton Mowbray pork pies for up to 2-3 months after purchase.
How to Freeze Melton Mowbray Pork Pies
Follow these steps to freeze Melton Mowbray pork pies correctly:
-
Allow pies to cool completely after baking. Warm pies will sweat condensation in the freezer.
-
Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
-
Double wrap pies in aluminum foil for an air-tight seal.
-
Place wrapped pies in labeled freezer bags or airtight containers.
-
Freeze pies immediately at 0°F or below. Fast freezing locks in freshness.
-
Once frozen solid, return pies to freezer. Store for up to 2-3 months.
-
Avoid refreezing thawed pies; this compromises safety and quality.
Proper wrapping and fast freezing ensures your Melton Mowbray pork pies stay fresh and delicious for months.
How Long Do Frozen Melton Mowbray Pork Pies Last?
When wrapped correctly and frozen continuously at 0°F, Melton Mowbray pork pies generally last:
- 1-2 months – Optimal quality
- 2-3 months – Still safe but some decline in texture
- 3-6 months – Edible but noticeable degradation in taste and pastry
For best flavor and texture, consume frozen Melton Mowbray pork pies within 1-2 months. Mark the freeze date on packages to track freshness.
How to Thaw Frozen Melton Mowbray Pork Pies
Always thaw frozen Melton Mowbray pork pies in the refrigerator, not at room temperature or in warm water.
Follow these thawing guidelines:
-
Place pies in refrigerator 24 hours before serving to thaw.
-
Keep pies wrapped while thawing to prevent moisture access.
-
Thaw in a container to catch drips as ice melts.
-
For quicker thawing, leave pies wrapped and place container in a bowl of cold water. Change water every 30 minutes.
-
Microwave thawing is not recommended as it cooks the filling.
Once thawed, use immediately or reheat gently before the pie filling perishes.
How to Serve Thawed Melton Mowbray Pork Pies
Enjoy your thawed Melton Mowbray pork pie:
-
Cold straight from the refrigerator
-
Warmed in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes
-
Quick fried in a skillet to recrisp the pastry
-
Sliced into wedges for appetizers or snacks
-
Accompanied by pickles, mustard or chutney
The rich baked filling pairs perfectly with the flaky hot water crust pastry. Savor this beloved British specialty anytime with proper freezing.
Tips for Freezing Melton Mowbray Pork Pies
Follow these tips for best results freezing and thawing Melton Mowbray pork pies:
-
Allow pies to fully cool after baking before freezing.
-
Double wrap pies in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
-
Portion pies before freezing for quick individual servings later.
-
Label each package with contents and freeze date for tracking.
-
Freeze pies immediately after wrapping using fast freezing methods.
-
Thaw frozen pies overnight in the refrigerator still wrapped.
-
Eat thawed pies within 3-5 days for food safety. Don’t refreeze.
-
Add sauce when reheating to keep the filling moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do cooked Melton Mowbray pork pies last in the fridge?
Cooked Melton Mowbray pork pies will keep 3-5 days refrigerated. Wrap well and store on the lowest shelf away from fresh produce to maximize shelf life.
Can you freeze and reheat Melton Mowbray pork pies?
Yes, Melton Mowbray pork pies freeze and reheat well when properly wrapped and defrosted gently in the refrigerator or oven. Avoid microwaving frozen pies.
Is the pastry on Melton Mowbray pork pies suitable for freezing?
The signature hot water crust pastry holds up well to freezing compared to shortcrust or puff pastry. Allow pies to fully cool before freezing to retain the crispy texture.
What is the best way to reheat a Melton Mowbray pork pie?
The oven is the ideal way to gently reheat a Melton Mowbray pork pie without overcooking the filling. Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Enjoy Frozen Melton Mowbray Pork Pies Anytime
With proper freezing and storage, you can keep delicious Melton Mowbray pork pies on hand anytime a craving strikes. Follow these guidelines for wrapping, freezing, thawing and reheating to retain the signature flavors and textures of this British specialty.
Freeze Melton Mowbray pork pies in individual portions so you can defrost just what you need. Or stock up when on sale to always have these tasty pies ready in your freezer.
So go ahead and freeze those leftovers or plan ahead. With frozen Melton Mowbray pork pies prepared properly, you’re never more than a short defrosting away from indulging in a beloved piece of English culinary heritage.