Unraveling the Mystery of Why Pork Pies are Called “Growlers”

As a lover of tasty meat pies I’ve always been curious about the unique nicknames used to describe certain varieties. Few are as odd as the term “growler” commonly used to refer to pork pies in Yorkshire England. This peculiar label immediately raises the question – why on earth are pork pies called growlers??

I decided to dig into the history and theories behind this quirky pork pie nickname. While there’s no definitive answer, interesting stories emerge on how “growler” came to be Yorkshire slang for this savory regional specialty. Let’s explore some of the top explanations behind this culinary mystery.

A Signature Snack of Yorkshire

First, a quick primer on pork pies themselves. These handheld meat pies consist of a hot water pastry crust enveloping diced pork and pork jelly Pork pies originated as a way for Yorkshire farmers to utilize leftover meat scraps in a portable meal for workers in the 18th century

Over time, pork pies gained popularity across Yorkshire. Home bakers, local markets, and large-scale producers made them a staple of the region. The annual pork pie competition held at the Old Bridge Inn further cemented their status.

In Yorkshire dialect, pork pies are affectionately dubbed “growlers.” But how did this unique nickname emerge?

Theories on the Origin of “Growler”

Pinpointing the exact origin of “growler” is difficult, as Yorkshire slang and folklore often evolve without a clear linear history. But some compelling theories help explain it:

Naval and Army Slang

One idea traces “growler” to the term “NAAFI growler” used in British naval and army slang. The NAAFI was the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes – a non-profit organization serving the British Armed Forces. “Growler” referred to a bucket or jug for beer, possibly linking it to the pork pie’s similar round shape.

Pig Growling

Since pork is the main filling, some believe “growler” comes from the grunting noise an angry or hungry pig makes. Calling pork pies “growlers” could stem from this onomatopoeic connection.

Stomach Growling

Perhaps the most convincing theory is that “growler” refers to the gurgling sound of a hungry stomach. Pork pies were an inexpensive, filling snack, so eating one may have quieted your “growler.”

Contents and Ingredients

Related to stomach growling, “growler” may reference indigestion caused by the pies’ contents. Pork offcuts and fat were commonly used, earning pork pies a reputation for sometimes questionable ingredients that could irritate the stomach.

While unproven, these theories provide interesting insight into why pork pies earned this distinctive nickname. But how did “growler” spread through Yorkshire culture and come to be synonymous with pork pies?

How “Growler” Embedded in Yorkshire Culture

As pork pies became ingrained in Yorkshire identity, “growler” emerged as the shorthand name, spreading through generations until it stuck. Some key factors in this process:

• Local Dialect – Yorkshire’s unique local vernacular readily adopted “growler” into the lexicon. Nicknames and colorful language were common.

• Product Prevalence – With pork pies’ popularity and availability, Yorkshire residents heard the term frequently when buying or eating them.

• Cultural Significance – Celebrations like the annual pork pie competition kept “growlers” culturally relevant. Events reinforced the name.

• Export Beyond Yorkshire – As other regions became exposed to Yorkshire pork pie culture, the “growler” moniker spread nationally.

While the origin remains uncertain, these factors explain how “growler” became ingrained as the pork pie nickname locally and beyond.

When “Growlers” Crossed the Pond

Funnily enough, “growler” caught on in North America too, but for beer instead of meat pies!

In the late 1800s, fresh beer from local taverns was poured into lidded pails for take-away. The CO2 escaping from the pail created a rumbling noise, leading to these beer vessels being dubbed “growlers.” The term crossed over to the US and now often refers to 64-ounce beer jugs.

So in both the UK and North America, “growler” refers to something that fills your stomach – either pork pies or beer!

Modern Pork Pie Culture

While the nickname’s origins are uncertain, no doubt exists over pork pies being a beloved Yorkshire tradition. The pies have evolved with creative new versions alongside traditional recipes.

Some current pork pie trends:

• Gourmet fillings like chorizo or black pudding

• Serving hot, cold, or at room temperature

• Vegetarian and vegan versions

• Elevated, handcrafted artisan pies

• Novelty flavors like Piccalilli and Stilton

From humble beginnings, pork pies are now gourmet fare. But they’ll always be “growlers” to Yorkshire locals!

The Mystery Continues

The exact roots of calling pork pies “growlers” remain shrouded in uncertainty. Like much regional slang, the nickname probably emerged gradually through everyday Yorkshire culture. But the theories explored give intriguing insight into this baffling yet charming culinary curiosity.

The “growler” moniker shows how food and language intersect, creating a unique sense of cultural identity. As an American pie enthusiast, researching this phenomenon gave me a new appreciation for Yorkshire’s rich food traditions. The heritage of the humble pork pie proves that sometimes the stories behind our favorite foods are just as satisfying!