Apple Tarts (or apple pies) are serious business in Ireland. Most Irish people will claim that their mother or their granny makes the best apple tart. Both my grannies always made amazing apple tarts. I think the secret was lots of butter and apples fresh from the trees.
Hand pies are more an American confection than a European one, and I haven’t really come across them too much. I can now see why hand pies are so ingenious though. Everyone gets an even portion, so no fighting over the biggest slice.
I love roasting root vegetables as it brings out all their natural sweetness. This tarte tartin starts out with roasted root vegetables which are then set into a bed of balsamic caramel, topped with herbs and cheese and covered with pastry. The result is absolutely delicious.
Ferrero rocher sweets were the type of chocolates that only ever appeared on special occasions. Advertisers would have us believe that they were served at Ambassador’s receptions and reserved for the finest of company.
This hearty, rich stew is covered with crisp buttery pastry which crumbles when you dip your spoon in to take a bite. The slightly bitter Guinness, the tender beef, cream and parmesan make this one satisfying pie.
Having just moved to America, I’m learning new things every day! Ground almonds are called almond meal, chick peas are called garbanzo beans, and Americans look horrified when I offer them a mince pie. I now realise mince pies are just not that popular over this side of the pond. Just to clarify – not …
