Stargazy Pie: A History of the Celebratory Cornish Dish
Stargazy pie, a unique and iconic dish from Cornwall, England, has a fascinating history and preparation method that has been passed down through generations.
Origins and Folklore
The origins of stargazy pie can be traced back to the 16th century, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Legend has it that a group of fishermen from Mousehole, a small fishing village in Cornwall, were caught in a fierce storm while out at sea. As they desperately prayed for safety, they vowed to make a special pie as a token of their gratitude if they were spared. Miraculously, the storm subsided, and the fishermen returned home safely. To fulfill their vow, they created a pie filled with pilchards, their catch of the day, and decorated it with the heads of the fish poking out of the crust, as if they were gazing up at the stars.
Traditional Preparation
Traditional stargazy pie is a labor of love, requiring patience and skill. It is typically made using the following ingredients:
- Fish: Traditionally, stargazy pie is made with pilchards, but other small oily fish such as herring or mackerel can also be used.
- Pastry: A shortcrust pastry is used to encase the pie, providing a flaky and buttery crust.
- Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs are placed inside the pie, symbolizing the eyes of the fish.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, and thyme are added for flavor and aroma.
Method:
- Prepare the fish: Clean and gut the fish, leaving the heads intact.
- Make the pastry: Create a shortcrust pastry and roll it out into a circle.
- Line the pie dish: Place the pastry into a greased pie dish and trim the edges.
- Fill the pie: Arrange the fish in a circular pattern inside the pastry, with their heads poking out through the top.
- Add the eggs: Place the hard-boiled eggs in the center of the pie.
- Season and add herbs: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and chopped herbs over the fish and eggs.
- Cover the pie: Roll out the remaining pastry and place it over the pie, pinching the edges to seal.
- Decorate the crust: Cut out small star shapes from the pastry and place them on top of the crust, symbolizing the stars.
- Bake: Bake the pie in a preheated oven until the crust is golden brown and the fish is cooked through.
Serving and Significance
Stargazy pie is traditionally served hot, often accompanied by mushy peas or chips. It is a celebratory dish, often enjoyed during special occasions such as Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or the annual Stargazy Pie Festival held in Mousehole. The festival, which takes place on the last Friday of December, features a competition to find the best stargazy pie, as well as other festivities.
Variations and Modern Interpretations
Over the years, variations of stargazy pie have emerged, with some chefs experimenting with different types of fish and fillings. Some modern interpretations include using larger fish such as salmon or sea bass, or adding vegetables such as leeks or carrots to the filling. The iconic star-shaped pastry decorations remain a signature element of the dish.
Stargazy pie remains a beloved culinary tradition in Cornwall, showcasing the region’s rich fishing heritage and storytelling culture. Its unique appearance and delicious taste make it a dish that continues to fascinate and delight people to this day.
