Q Butcher Wins Great Taste Award Supreme Championship

A free range pork pie from Q member Walter Smith (Birmingham) Ltd has seen off competition from throughout the UK to be crowned Great Taste Awards Supreme Champion 2007.

Robert Jones, Regional Director for the Midlands butchers, was naturally delighted to win the award which went to the company’s Cannock branch. Walter Smith has five of its network of shops – including Cannock -  proudly displaying the Q symbol.

“Until recently, all of our pies were made in a central depot and then distributed to our various branches, “ said Robert. “However, I felt that each branch should be making its own because, quite simply, the quality would be better if they were even fresher. The pie that won the Great Taste award was made by our staff in the Cannock shop.

“The recipe has always been a winner and got 99 out of 100 at the Malvern Food Festival in October 2006.

“We use free range pork belly because you need some fat, and pork shoulder because it’s a flavoursome cut. Together they give the filling a dark and light fleck and when cooked, you get this lovely contrasting coarse and soft texture when you bite into it.”

Walter Smith has teamed up with South of England Pastries who supply the hot water crust pastry. Each pie is made by hand….” we spoon the meat into the pastry shells, put the lids on, crimp them and jelly by hand.”