We’ve always been inspired by the fantastic work of The Men’s Pie Club in tackling male social isolation, so this summer we were thrilled to invite the “Pie Men” to two Pastry Masterclasses…
Even experts can learn a thing or two!
No one knows more about pies than the Pie Men! Nevertheless, the classes would give them the opportunity to refresh their pastry making skills and even learn some new ones.
By demonstrating new recipes, we hoped to increase their confidence around ingredients and cooking, giving them ideas that they could take back to their clubs.
What’s more, the classes would be a chance for the men to spend time with members of the wider Men’s Pie Club community, strengthening relationships between the clubs.
“It was excellent” - Pie Man
A masterclass in pastry making
Led by the Nourish team, in each class the Pie Men were shown how to make two pies using different types of pastry: a quick rough puff spinach and ricotta pithivier and a sweet shortcrust apple crostata.
For both recipes, the men were shown how to make and roll the pastry, and then how to make the fillings, with helpful hints and tips provided along the way.
Then it was time to have a go themselves!
“Good to make different pastry” - Pie Man
“It was excellent”
In the hands of such pie experts, the results were of course delicious!
More importantly, the Pie Men thoroughly enjoyed the classes and many commented on how much they appreciated the demonstrations and instructions.
“Our guys mentioned how welcoming the class was, appropriate for people whatever their skill level” - Chris Smith, Programme Manager, Men’s Pie Club
Crucially, many of the Pie Men said they had learned techniques and used ingredients that they hadn’t experienced before.
“The first time I’ve done a fruit pie… tastes nice as well!” - Pie Man
Others were thrilled with the simple tips that would improve their overall cooking, such as knife skills and the best time to add garlic to get the most from it.
In fact, many of them said that they were already planning to use what they had learned in their Pie Clubs. High praise indeed!
“The quality and simplicity of the recipes has encouraged experimentation at their own clubs.” - Chris Smith, Men’s Pie Club
What’s next?
After the success of the Pastry Masterclasses, we are planning further collaborations with The Men’s Pie Club.
While more pastry work may feature, the Pie Men have expressed an interest in learning more about curries, the use of spices and other Asian cuisines.
Watch this space!
Local guys making pies: about the Men’s Pie Club
The Men’s Pie Club was established to tackle issues of social isolation, loneliness and mental health in men.
With clubs in Tyneside, Tees Valley and Leeds, the Club provides a space for men to chat, socialise and, of course, make pies.
Men’s Pie Club is organised by our parent organisation, Food Nation, and is funded by leading men’s health charity, Movember.
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