Who Banned Mince Pies In The 17th Century

Ah, mince pies. The very mention conjures images of crackling fires, frosty windows, and the warm, spicy aroma that fills the kitchen during the festive season. For many, they're more than just a treat; they're a tradition, a symbol of comfort and joy, a small edible hug that encapsulates the spirit of Christmas.

But have you ever stopped to think about the history behind this humble little pie? It's a journey filled with unexpected twists, and, believe it or not, a period where these beloved Christmas staples were actually banned! The story of who banned mince pies in the 17th century is a fascinating glimpse into a time of religious and political upheaval in England.

Mince pies, or "mutton pies" as they were sometimes known, weren't always the sweet, fruity delicacies we know and love today. Originally, they were far more savory, containing minced meat (hence the name!), suet, dried fruits, and spices. These ingredients weren't just for flavour; they held symbolic meaning. The spices represented the gifts brought by the Wise Men to the baby Jesus, and the oblong shape was said to represent the manger. They were a way to express faith and celebrate the religious significance of the season.

So, who was the Grinch who stole the mince pies? The culprit was none other than the Puritans, led by Oliver Cromwell. Following the English Civil War, the Puritans rose to power, and they had a rather dim view of many Christmas traditions. They saw Christmas as a period of excessive revelry and decadence, far removed from the solemn religious observation they favoured. Anything associated with feasting and merriment was deemed suspect, and that included mince pies.

The Puritans believed that the elaborate ingredients and festive nature of mince pies were a distraction from the true meaning of Christmas, which, in their eyes, should be a time of prayer and reflection. They viewed mince pies as a symbol of Catholic excess and superstition. Therefore, in the 1640s and 50s, during the Interregnum (the period between the reigns of Charles I and Charles II), mince pies were effectively banned! Along with other Christmas traditions like carol singing and decorating homes, mince pies were suppressed as part of a larger effort to reform English society.

Fortunately, the ban didn't last forever. When the monarchy was restored in 1660 with Charles II, mince pies, along with other Christmas traditions, made a triumphant return. People were eager to embrace the festivities they had been denied for so long, and mince pies once again became a cherished part of the Christmas celebrations.

How can you enjoy mince pies more effectively today? Well, the good news is there are no Puritanical bans to worry about! Experiment with different fillings - add a dash of brandy or rum for extra warmth, or try different fruits and spices to create your own unique flavour. Don't be afraid to try different pastry recipes either, from classic shortcrust to flaky puff pastry. And, of course, serving them warm with a dollop of brandy butter or cream is always a winner! So go ahead, indulge in a mince pie (or two!), and remember the fascinating history behind this festive treat.