Have you ever wondered how to make those delicious mountain pies that are perfect for camping trips and outdoor adventures? Look no further, as this article has got you covered with an easy-to-follow mountain pies recipe. Whether you prefer savory or sweet fillings, you’ll learn how to create these delectable treats using a simple method and a few basic ingredients. Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food that will leave you craving for more – all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To make delicious mountain pies, you will need the following ingredients:
Bread slices
Choose your favorite type of bread for the base of your mountain pies. White bread, wheat bread, or even sourdough can be used.
Butter
Butter is an essential ingredient for creating that crispy and golden crust on your mountain pies. Make sure to spread a generous amount of butter on each bread slice.
Filling of choice
Get creative with your fillings! Whether you prefer classic combinations like cheese and ham or want to experiment with different vegetables, the choice is yours. The filling options are endless, so you can customize your mountain pies to your taste preferences.
Equipment
Before you start making your mountain pies, gather the following equipment:
Pie iron
A pie iron is a must-have tool for making mountain pies. It consists of two metal plates with long handles that are hinged together. This allows you to place your assembled mountain pie inside and grill it to perfection.
Cooking spray or oil
To prevent your mountain pies from sticking to the pie iron, you will need to spray or lightly oil it before cooking. This will ensure that your pies come out easily without any mess.
Campfire or grill
There are two cooking methods you can choose from: using a campfire or a grill. Depending on your preference and available resources, both methods will result in delicious mountain pies.
Preparation
Now that you have gathered your ingredients and equipment, it’s time to prepare for the mountain pie making process.
Prepare the filling ingredients
Prep your desired filling ingredients by slicing the cheese, ham, or vegetables. This will make it easier to assemble your mountain pies later on.
Butter the bread slices
Take each bread slice and generously spread butter on one side of each slice. This will help achieve a crispy and golden crust when cooked.
Assemble the mountain pies
Take one bread slice with the buttered side facing down and place your desired fillings on top. Be generous with your fillings, but make sure not to overstuff the pie. Then, take another buttered bread slice and place it on top, butter side facing up. Press the edges of the bread slices together firmly to make sure the pie is sealed.
Cooking Method 1: Campfire
If you’re planning a camping trip and want to enjoy some delicious mountain pies around the campfire, here’s how you can do it.
Prepare the campfire
First, ensure that you have a safe and well-contained campfire area. Clear away any debris and make a fire pit. Gather your firewood and kindling. If necessary, check if your campsite allows open fires and follow any regulations or guidelines.
Heat the pie iron
Hold the pie iron over the campfire and allow it to heat up. It’s important to heat both sides of the pie iron evenly, so make sure to rotate it occasionally.
Cook the mountain pies on the campfire
Once the pie iron is hot, open it and place one assembled mountain pie inside. Close the pie iron and carefully hold it over the campfire. Cook the mountain pie for a few minutes on each side, flipping occasionally, until it turns golden brown and the filling is melted. Remove the pie iron from the heat and carefully open it to reveal your perfectly cooked mountain pie. Enjoy!
Cooking Method 2: Grill
If you prefer using a grill to cook your mountain pies, here’s how to do it.
Preheat the grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring that the grates are clean and ready for cooking.
Oil or spray the pie iron
Lightly oil or spray the pie iron to prevent the mountain pies from sticking to it during cooking.
Grill the mountain pies
Place the assembled mountain pie inside the pie iron and close it. Carefully place the pie iron on the preheated grill and cook for a few minutes on each side. Flip the pie iron occasionally until both sides are golden brown and the filling is melted. Remove the pie iron from the grill and open it to reveal your deliciously grilled mountain pie.
Serving Suggestions
Once your mountain pies are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your mountain pie experience:
Serve with condiments
Enhance the flavors of your mountain pies by serving them with condiments like ketchup, mustard, or even hot sauce. These condiments can complement the fillings and add an extra kick of flavor.
Pair with a side salad or chips
To make your meal more well-rounded, serve your mountain pies with a refreshing side salad or some crunchy chips. This will add some variety to your plate and provide a balanced combination of flavors and textures.
Variations
There are several variations you can explore to cater to different preferences and dietary restrictions.
Sweet mountain pies
If you have a sweet tooth, why not try making sweet mountain pies? Instead of savory fillings, use fruit fillings like sliced apples, berries, or even chocolate spread. Dust some powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
Vegetarian or vegan mountain pies
For those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you can still enjoy delicious mountain pies by using plant-based cheese and fillings. Experiment with different veggies, tofu, or meat alternatives to create a satisfying and flavorful vegetarian or vegan mountain pie.
Tips
To make your mountain pie experience even more enjoyable, here are some handy tips:
Use a pie iron with long handles for safety
When using a pie iron, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Opt for a pie iron with long handles to keep your hands and arms away from the heat source, whether it’s a campfire or grill.
Experiment with different fillings and spices for variety
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your mountain pie fillings. Try different combinations of cheeses, meats, vegetables, and even spices to explore new flavors and add variety to your meals.
Allow the mountain pies to cool slightly before eating to avoid burns
Once your mountain pies are cooked, resist the temptation to dive right in. Give them a few minutes to cool slightly before taking your first bite. This will help prevent burns and ensure that you can enjoy your mountain pies comfortably.
Storage
If you have any leftover mountain pies, here’s how you can store them properly for later consumption:
Store leftover mountain pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator
To keep your mountain pies fresh, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This will help maintain their texture and prevent them from drying out.
Reheat in a preheated oven or toaster oven for best results
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven or toaster oven and reheat the mountain pies until they are warmed through. This will help restore their delicious, melty fillings and crispy crust.
Safety Precautions
When making mountain pies, it’s important to prioritize safety, especially if children are involved. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:
Supervise children while using a pie iron
If children are helping or using the pie iron themselves, make sure to closely supervise them. Emphasize the importance of handling the hot pie iron with caution and keeping a safe distance from the heat source.
Handle hot pie irons with oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves
To protect your hands from burns, always use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling hot pie irons. This will ensure your safety while cooking and serving your delicious mountain pies.
Enjoy your homemade mountain pies and have a fantastic time creating memorable meals around the campfire or grill!
