What is the proper usage of a pie bird?
I have one of those ceramic pie birds that vent steam from a pie while it bakes. What benefit does using this provide to the end result? Also, in what types of pies should it be used?
Best Answer
From this site I found that there are two major benefits to using a pie bird
Prevent the pie from boiling over in the oven by allowing the steam created when the fruit filling or other contents are cooking to escape from inside the pie
Support the pastry crust in the center of the pie, so that it did not sag in the middle
Based on the site it seems that they can be put in any type of pie.
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How is a pie bird used?
A pie bird is a hollow ceramic tool that bakers place in the center of pies to prevent bubbling over. They can also be called pie vents, because that hollow core allows steam to escape during baking.Do you need to use a pie bird?
Pie birds are only necessary for double-crusted pie, like this Fresh Pear Pie, so if your recipe doesn't use a bottom and a top crust, you don't need to use a pie bird.Why do you need a pie funnel?
A small ceramic funnel which is placed on the filling of a pie, before the pastry lid is put in position. The funnel allows steam to escape during baking and prevents pastry cracking or turning soggy or the pie filling bubbling out.What is a vintage pie bird?
Pie birds are useful tools to prevent pies from bubbling over, can be found in various shapes and colors and are cute ceramic figurines to display in the kitchen.Pie Bird-Porcelain Pie Bird- Mrs. Anderson’s Baking
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Answer 2
I can add that while you could probably use it with any type of closed pie, you must use one (or a DIY steam vent) when baking a pâté in a crust. Not only will it let the steam escape, you need the big hole to fill the not-yet-set gelatine mix after it has cooled.
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