Mock Mince Pie Recipe

Mock mince pie is a delightful dessert that provides a tasty alternative to traditional mince pie. While it may not contain meat, it still captures the wonderful flavors and textures that make mince pie such a beloved dish. In this recipe, we will be using a combination of tart apples, raisins, currants, citron, and various spices to create a delicious, fruity filling. So, let's get started!

First, gather all the ingredients you will need for the mock mince pie filling. You will need eight tart apples that have been peeled, cored, and chopped finely. Additionally, you will need one cup of seedless raisins, half a cup of currants, one ounce of chopped citron, half a teaspoon each of cinnamon, cloves, spice, and mace. Don't forget to add a tiny bit of salt and some grated nutmeg for that extra depth of flavor. Finally, you will need one tablespoon of brandy and the juice and rind of one lemon.

Once you have all the ingredients ready, it's time to start making the filling. In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, raisins, currants, and chopped citron. Mix them together until they are well combined.

Next, it's time to add the spices and flavorings. Add the cinnamon, cloves, spice, mace, salt, and grated nutmeg to the bowl. Gently fold the spices into the fruit mixture until they are evenly distributed.

Now, it's time to add the brandy and lemon juice and rind. Pour the tablespoon of brandy over the fruit mixture, ensuring that it is evenly distributed. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the bowl, being careful to catch any seeds. Finally, grate the rind of the lemon and add it to the mixture.

Give the mixture one final gentle stir to combine all the ingredients. Cover the bowl and let the filling sit for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and intensify.

While the filling is resting, it's time to prepare the pie crust. You can use your favorite pre-made pie crust or make your own from scratch. Line the bottom and sides of a pie plate with the crust, ensuring that it is well pressed into all the nooks and crannies.

Once the pie crust is prepared, it's time to fill it with the mock mince pie filling. Pour the filling into the pie crust, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.

For an extra touch of elegance, take thin strips of pie crust and arrange them across the top of the filling in a lattice pattern. This will not only add visual appeal to the pie but will also allow the filling to peek through.

Now, it's time to bake the mock mince pie. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie plate on the center rack of the oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Once the mock mince pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. This will allow the filling to set before serving.

Fun Fact: Mince pies have a rich history that dates back to medieval times. Originally, mince pies were filled with a combination of meat, fruits, and spices, symbolizing the gifts brought to baby Jesus by the three wise men. Over time, the recipe evolved, and the meat was eventually replaced with suet, making it accessible to those who abstained from eating meat during religious observances. Today, mock mince pies and vegetarian versions are enjoyed by people around the world.

Mock mince pie can be served warm or cold, and it pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Its sweet and tangy filling, combined with the warm spices, creates a delightful flavor combination that is sure to impress.

Similar recipe dishes that you might enjoy include apple pie, cherry pie, and pumpkin pie. Each of these recipes uses a different fruit as the main filling, but they all share the same comforting, homemade taste that makes them perfect for any occasion.

So next time you're looking for a delicious dessert that captures the essence of mince pie without the meat, give this mock mince pie recipe a try. It's sure to become a favorite in your household and will delight your family and friends with its wonderful flavors. Enjoy!