Ever since I missed out on the opportunity to eat a meat pie in Scotland, I have been thinking about my chance to try it. The 14 hour braised steak and ale pie at The One Elm was delicious. I was expecting the mashed potato and vegetables to be stuffed into the pie itself so I was a bit surprised to see it sitting on the side. The meat in the pie was really tender and full of juice. The pie itself held up well and did not become soggy at any point during my lunch. The mashed potato was especially creamy. The vegetable, which was not seasoned, went well with the dish. The main flavors came from the meat pie and the side dishes were just that, side dishes without detracting from the main food item. 10/10 would recommend. The berries and cherries cider that I had with the meal was also very good. It tasted very fruity and refreshing. It was by the brand Old Mout, which I have never seen in the US, but I will definitely be taking another look. Although the cider was very good, I think that a darker beer/ale would have gone better with this particular meat pie.
Fun History: Back in the good ol days, beer was a safe, nutrious and caloric drink that people from all walks of life consumed. From old to young and wealthy to poor. Not only that, but most importantly, beer was safe. Water sometimes carried bacteria and pathogens that spread disease.
