What is the difference between sweet pies and savory pies?

Sweet Pies:

* Fillings: Primarily fruit-based, such as apples, berries, peaches, cherries, pumpkin, or custard. Sometimes include nuts, spices, and sweeteners.

* Flavors: Sweet, often with a balance of tartness from fruit.

* Crust: Usually a buttery, flaky pastry crust.

* Examples: Apple pie, blueberry pie, pecan pie, cherry pie, pumpkin pie.

Savory Pies:

* Fillings: Meat-based, vegetable-based, or a combination of both. Can include cheese, herbs, spices, and sauces.

* Flavors: Salty, savory, and often umami-rich.

* Crust: Can be buttery, flaky, or a thicker, more robust dough depending on the filling.

* Examples: Chicken pot pie, shepherd's pie, steak and ale pie, Cornish pasty, quiche.

Here's a table summarizing the key differences:

| Feature | Sweet Pie | Savory Pie |

|---|---|---|

| Filling | Fruit-based, custard | Meat, vegetables, cheese |

| Flavor | Sweet, tart | Savory, salty, umami |

| Crust | Buttery, flaky | Can vary (flaky, robust) |

| Examples | Apple pie, cherry pie | Chicken pot pie, quiche |

Ultimately, the distinction between sweet and savory pies is driven by the dominant flavor profile of the filling.