Stargazy Pie, a unique and traditional dish from Cornwall, England, has gained popularity not only for its peculiar appearance but also for its rich, savory taste. This pie, with fish heads peeking out from the crust as if gazing at the stars, is a sight to behold and a conversation starter at any dinner table. But it’s not just the presentation that makes it popular. The pie is filled with pilchards, eggs, and potatoes, all baked in a pastry crust, creating a hearty and comforting dish. The fish, usually pilchards or sardines, are arranged with their heads protruding from the crust, which allows the oils released during cooking to flow back into the pie, enhancing its flavor. This combination of visual appeal and a taste that’s deeply rooted in Cornish tradition is what makes Stargazy Pie a popular choice among food enthusiasts.

Where to try the best Stargazy Pie

If you’re looking to try the best Stargazy Pie, a traditional Cornish dish made with pilchards, you should head to The Ship Inn located in Mousehole, Cornwall, UK. This quaint seaside pub is renowned for its authentic Stargazy Pie, which is baked with the fish heads peeking out of the crust, as per tradition. The pie is a perfect blend of savory flavors, with the fish, hard-boiled eggs, and potatoes all complemented by a mustard and cider sauce. The Ship Inn is particularly famous for serving this dish on Tom Bawcock’s Eve, a local festival held on December 23rd. However, you can also find this delicacy on their regular menu. For more information, visit their website at http://shipinnmousehole.co.uk/. The Ship Inn’s Stargazy Pie is a must-try for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of Cornwall’s culinary heritage.

Where did Stargazy Pie come from

Stargazy Pie is a traditional Cornish dish that dates back to the 16th century. Its name comes from the unique presentation of the pie, where fish heads are made to protrude from the crust, appearing to gaze at the stars. The dish is deeply rooted in the history of the fishing village of Mousehole in Cornwall, England. The pie is traditionally made with pilchards, but mackerel or herring can also be used. The story behind the dish is linked to a local legend of a fisherman named Tom Bawcock who braved the stormy seas to catch enough fish to feed the starving villagers. To celebrate his heroic act, the villagers baked all the fish into a pie. Every year on December 23rd, known as Tom Bawcock’s Eve, the villagers of Mousehole still celebrate this event by making Stargazy Pie.


We hope you enjoyed this culinary discovery and will incorporate it into your next adventurous journey around the world. If you found this dish delightful, don’t hesitate to share it with your friends. And if you have any other dishes that travelers should try, feel free to add them to our website using our submission form at https://forkhunter.com/frontend-post/. Your contributions help enrich the experiences of fellow food enthusiasts and travelers alike.

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