Cockle Pie is a classic dish that celebrates the bounty of coastal regions, particularly in areas where cockles are abundant. This savory pie features a filling of tender cockles, enhanced with flavorful seasonings and often accompanied by complementary ingredients like vegetables or herbs. The pie crust provides a delightful contrast, offering a crisp and golden shell that encases the succulent cockle filling.

The history of Cockle Pie traces back to coastal communities where seafood was a staple part of the diet. Cockles, being plentiful along coastal shores, were commonly harvested and incorporated into various dishes, including pies. The pie itself has roots in traditional British and European cuisines, evolving over time to reflect local tastes and ingredients. Today, Cockle Pie remains a beloved dish, cherished for its connection to coastal culinary heritage and the delightful flavors it brings to the table.

Ingredients:

- 500g fresh cockles, cleaned and shelled

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon butter

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry

- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Method of Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.

3. Add the cleaned cockles to the pan and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the cockles are just cooked through.

4. Roll out the puff pastry sheet and line a pie dish with it, leaving some overhang.

5. Spoon the cockle mixture into the pastry-lined dish, spreading it evenly.

6. Fold the overhanging pastry over the top of the filling to create a rustic edge.

7. Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp.

9. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Value:

1. Fresh Cockles (500g, cleaned and shelled):

  - Calories: Approximately 275 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible (less than 1g)

  - Protein: About 60g

  - Fat: Less than 2g

  - Sodium: Varies based on preparation, typically low (around 100-200mg)

  - Cholesterol: About 100-150mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Cockles are a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, which are essential for energy production and red blood cell formation. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health.

2. Onion (1, finely chopped):

  - Calories: Around 40 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g

  - Protein: About 1g

  - Fat: Negligible (less than 1g)

  - Sodium: Very low (around 5mg)

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Onions are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and B6, and dietary fiber, supporting immune function and digestive health.

3. Garlic (2 cloves, minced):

  - Calories: Around 10 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 2g

  - Protein: Less than 1g

  - Fat: Negligible (less than 1g)

  - Sodium: Very low (around 1-2mg)

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Garlic is known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties. It contains allicin, a compound with potential health benefits for the heart and immune system.

4. Butter (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 100 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible (less than 1g)

  - Protein: Negligible (less than 1g)

  - Fat: About 11g

  - Sodium: Varies (salted vs. unsalted butter)

  - Cholesterol: About 30mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Butter provides fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high saturated fat content.

5. Salt and Pepper (to taste):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Varies based on usage

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Salt adds flavor, and pepper contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

6. Store-Bought Puff Pastry (1 sheet):

  - Calories: Around 160-200 kcal (varies by brand and size)

  - Carbohydrates: About 15-20g

  - Protein: About 2-3g

  - Fat: Around 10-15g

  - Sodium: Varies (depends on brand)

  - Cholesterol: Varies (depends on brand)

  - Nutritional Benefits: Puff pastry is primarily a source of carbohydrates and fat. Choose options with minimal trans fats for better health outcomes.

7. Egg (1, beaten for egg wash):

  - Calories: Approximately 70 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1g

  - Protein: About 6g

  - Fat: About 5g

  - Sodium: Around 70mg

  - Cholesterol: About 185mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Eggs are rich in protein, vitamins (A, D, E, and B-complex), minerals (iron, zinc), and antioxidants (lutein, zeaxanthin), supporting various aspects of health, including eye health and muscle function.

These nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands, cooking methods, and portion sizes.