Apple Pie

The idiom as American as apple pie is a phrase Americans use to denote a prominent cultural aspect, like eating apple pie, which has a history intertwined with the American way of life for centuries. However, before apple pie became a symbol of America, this dish, along with the apple fruit itself, did not originate in America.

The Birth of Apple Pie in England: Roman Influence and Savory Beginnings

Dating back to 1381, apple pie was first made by the English, influenced by the ancient Roman civilization thousands of years ago. In that era, Romans often had many fruit-filled pastries. The concept of wrapping fruit in dough emerged as pastry became influential in cooking. Over time, this culinary practice spread throughout Europe.

The English used apples, a popular fruit at the time, as a filling, wrapping them in pastry to make apple pie. However, early apple pies were often more savory than sweet, as sugar was not commonly used then; instead, spices were the main ingredients. One of the earliest apple pie recipes appeared in a book titled The Forme of Cury by Samuel Pegge, published in the 14th century.

Apple Pie's Journey to America: From Scarcity to Widespread Popularity

By the 17th century, apple pie began to take on a more recognizable form. During this period, sugar and butter became more accessible ingredients. Thus, apple pie evolved into a sweet dessert with the addition of sugar instead of some spices. Eventually, the popularity of apple pie spread to many regions, including America.

Apple pie became known in America during the colonial period through European settlers. Prior to this, Americans were unfamiliar with apples, so most pies in America were typically made with meat. When Europeans began to settle, they brought apple pie recipes and apple trees for cultivation. However, growing apples in America at that time was not easy; it took roughly a century for apples to grow and develop good flavor. During this period, making apple pie often relied on Europeans bringing apples across the seas.

Later, once Americans successfully cultivated and improved apple varieties to have good flavor, the popularity of apple pie grew even more. It became easy to make and inexpensive, eventually becoming a staple in American cuisine. It was featured in countless cookbooks, and numerous recipes were developed. Americans loved this pie so much that a famous saying emerged: "people who don't eat pie deserve to be eliminated." Consequently, American apple pie consumption surged, surpassing that of Europeans.

Apple Pie: A National Symbol and Wartime Pride

During World War II, apple pie's popularity in America strengthened even further. This pie was one of the foods that was not rationed, allowing the population to consume it without limits. It also became a symbol of love and warmth, as American soldiers fighting abroad proudly declared they were fighting for their families and apple pie. This declaration significantly boosted the morale of the civilians back home.

After the war, apple pie was officially honored as American Apple Pie. Although it did not originate in this land, the deep connection between the food and the American way of life made apple pie an intrinsic part of American culture, giving rise to the phrase as American as apple pie from that point onward.