PIE ’n’ mash should be given protected status to recognise its cultural importance to Cockneys, MPs will say today.
The dish could be elevated alongside other recognised foods such as Stilton cheese and Cumberland sausages.
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In the Commons today, MP Richard Holden — whose Basildon and Billericay constituency has two cafés serving the East End favourite — will urge ministers to back the campaign.
The ex-Tory minister said: “Pie ’n’ mash has been enjoyed by Cockneys both in London and in the diaspora for decades.
“It’s only right we protect and celebrate this important dish as part of our British culture.” Pie ’n’ mash traditionally consists of minced beef pie, mashed potato and a vivid green parsley liquor. It is sometimes served with stewed jellied eels.
The dish has been around since the 19th century but there are only about 40 shops left.
Protection for a food can be obtained if a traditional recipe has been used for 30 years.
If special status is awarded, the recipe cannot be imitated.
Shop owner Fred Cooke — whose great-great grandfather Robert Frederick Cooke is said to have invented pie ’n’ mash in 1862 — is backing the campaign.
He has moved with the times and does a vegetarian version.
Andy Green, at the Modern Cockney Festival, said protected status would “give a statement that despite rumours of its death, pie ’n’ mash is thriving.”
Ex-EastEnders actor Danny Dyer is backing the campaign.
