pie perfection

In the world of sweet success, fried pies have achieved the upper crust of yummy.

It's delicious, fits in your hand, and makes your mouth happy. Really, now, is there anything better than a fried pie? We think not. And the granddaddy of the best Southern fried pie is Hubig's in New Orleans. This Louisiana institution has offered up its handheld pieces of paradise since 1922.

Most of the pie ingredients-apples, lemons, sugar, sweet potatoes-come from Louisiana vendors. The business turns out 14,000 fresh pies a day that are shipped all over the state. "Every local service station, corner grocery store, and Wal-Mart has our pies," says Ashley Bowman, one of the partners in Hubig's.

"Apple and lemon are always available," she adds. "Sweet potato is only available when we can get the yams fresh from southwestern Louisiana."

Ashley says the pies taste best after being warmed up in the microwave for 25 seconds; they keep fresh for seven days but can be frozen. "My grandmother has to have a chocolate pie every morning for breakfast, and each night she has to have an apple," says Ashley. Sounds like a sweet plan to me.

For more information call Hubig's Pies at 1 -800-232-0269. Order a package containing 12 pies, a T-shirt, and New Orleans restaurant guide for $45; they accept checks only. WANDA MCKINNEY

Hoover, Alabama

The Original Golden Rule Barbecue, a popular hangout for pork fans all over the state, has an added attraction at its Hoover location: homemade fried pies. They'll finish off your barbecue meal with a squeal of delight ($1.95 each). 1571 Montgomery Highway; (205) 823-7770.

Cleveland, Tennessee

The bakery at Apple Valley Orchards offers up a mouth-watering treat in its golden brown fried apple pies made with dried fruit ($1.45 each). 357 Weese Road; (423) 472-3044, 1-800-503-1433, or www.applevalley orchard.com.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

Be sure to visit Mercier Orchards in Fannin County, where the fried pies are just hard to beat. Popular flavors include a no-sugar-added apple ($1.50 each). 8660 Blue Ridge Drive; (706) 632-3411, 1-800-361-7731, or www.mercierorchards.com.

Memphis, Tennessee

If you survive eating the three-biscuit early-morning feast at Bryant's Breakfast, don't miss the opportunity to grab a fried peach or apple pie ($1.89 each). If you're full, take some with you. They're just too good to pass up. 3965 Summer A venue; (901) 324-7494.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Apr 2005
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