Pies for autumn picnic

GRAB A RUG AND HEAD OUTDOORS TO ENJOY THESE TASTY TREATS

The weather might be cooler but there’s still every reason to enjoy the great outdoors. When the weather cools and the ovens fire up, there is nothing better than partaking in the concept of eating outdoors. We Aussies can do this in numerous ways: fire up the barbie, eat lunch on the back deck, sit on the front veranda eating sandwiches, or simply share a cake with the neighbour over the fence.

But there is a different way to enjoy the outdoors: a picnic.

History tells us that picnics are akin to the medieval practice of feasting on meats and pastries before hunting in the great outdoors. Haute cuisine tells us that picnicking became de rigueur in France after the Revolution. It was here the French began eating outdoors in the newly opened Royal Parks, exclaiming “pique un niche!” (“pick a place”) to one another.

Picnic purists would probably say we adopted the outdoor eating tradition from London’s Picnic Society. These were a set of forwardthinking alfresco diners who would meet in the gardens surrounding Oxford St for eating, conversation and sunshine. Afternoon tea enthusiasts would say this was the genesis of outdoor garden parties. The aristocracy cottoned on to the practice and saw fit to set up their dining sets on tables in a meadow to enjoy the outdoor air.

But these days, we aren’t hunting, nor do we have time to set up the fine china and candelabras outdoors. We want picnic foods to be simple to carry and easy to eat with your hands (especially if you’ve forgotten the biodegradable cutlery). These simple pie recipes are perfect for an outdoor occasion and don’t require additional cutlery or special table linens. Not only are they quick and simple to make, but they can be packed in aluminium foil so you can easily transport them to your venue.

So, this weekend, whip up these easy pies, wrap them in foil and pack them in the wicker picnic basket. These simple, packable meals will make picnics outside that extra bit special. Pack a hot flask in the basket so you can enjoy these recipes with lots of warm cups of tea or coffee, too.

Then, grab the tartan picnic rug, find a tranquil spot in nature and tell your loved ones to meet for a breath of crisp autumn air and some simple Aussie alfresco dining.