As you rummage through a box of old kitchen utensils, you stumble upon a peculiar find: a hollow ceramic bird with a hole in its beak and another at the bottom. It seems out of place among the usual pots, pans, and spatulas. What could it possibly be used for?
At first glance, it might appear to be a decorative piece, perhaps a whimsical touch to someone’s kitchen décor. However, this little bird holds more than its charming appearance suggests. It’s a tool with a long tradition in baking, specifically for making pies. Let’s delve into the world of pie birds to understand their purpose and history.
1. What You Actually Found: Identifying the Ceramic Pie Bird
The ceramic bird you’ve found is known as a pie bird or pie funnel. These small, hollow devices are typically made of ceramic and are designed to vent steam from pies during baking, preventing them from bubbling over. Measurements can vary, but they are often around 3 to 4 inches tall.
Pie birds usually have a small hole at the bottom and another at the top, often styled as the beak of the bird. This design allows steam to escape through the bird, reducing the chance of a pie boiling over. They come in various colors and styles, often resembling whimsical birds, though other animal shapes can be found.
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