Pie Floater – South Australia’s Floating Meat Pie

The Pie Floater is a beloved culinary oddity from Adelaide, South Australia. This comforting dish consists of a traditional Aussie meat pie served “floating” in a thick bowl of green pea soup, often topped with tomato sauce or a splash of vinegar. Though it might sound unusual, the combination is surprisingly satisfying — warm, savory, and hearty, making it a favorite late-night meal or winter warmer. The Pie Floater has inspired various food recipes that bring this unique and nostalgic dish to tables beyond Adelaide.

Pie floaters became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially as street food served from iconic pie carts. Though those vendors have mostly vanished, the dish remains a cultural symbol and is still served in traditional eateries around Adelaide. Making it at home is quite easy and gives you a taste of Aussie food history.

Classic Homemade Pie Floater

Ingredients:

For the Pea Soup:

• 1 ½ cups dried green split peas
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 4 meat pies (store-bought or homemade)
• Tomato sauce (ketchup), to serve
• Mint sauce or malt vinegar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Make the pea soup:
• Rinse split peas. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and carrot until soft. Add peas and stock. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1–1.5 hours until thick. Blend for a smooth texture if desired. Season to taste.
2. Heat the pies:
• While the soup simmers, bake or reheat meat pies according to instructions.
3. Assemble the dish:
• Spoon hot pea soup into a bowl, place the meat pie in the center. Top with tomato sauce and optional mint sauce or vinegar.
4. Serve:
• Best enjoyed hot as a hearty meal.
  
  
  

FAQs – Pie Floater

Q: Can I use canned pea soup?
A: Yes, for convenience. But homemade soup offers a more authentic flavor.

Q: What kind of pies work best?
A: Traditional Aussie beef meat pies are the classic choice, but veggie pies can work as well.

Q: Is it traditionally served with tomato sauce?
A: Yes! Tomato sauce is essential, and some people also add vinegar or mint sauce for tang.

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