Christmas classic:Mince pies from Stephanie Alexander.Jennifer SooTime:30 mins - 1 hourMakes:About 12 pies
Once upon a time,English mince pies did contain minced meat. Nowadays,the meat has disappeared and the fillings are complex mixtures of dried and fresh fruits,sometimes nuts,usually highly spiced and rather alcoholic. The only legacy of the meat is that beef suet is often an ingredient. These miniature pies have been associated with Christmas since the 16th century. I include grated beef suet in my mincemeat as nothing else gives such a rich gloss and succulent texture. Those who find the idea repellent can substitute butter,I suppose,or simply leave it out.