Cornish Beef Pasties: A Hearty Taste of Tradition and Comfort
Introduction: Transport yourself to the picturesque landscapes of Cornwall with our Cornish Beef Pasties recipe, a culinary masterpiece that encapsulates the rich history and flavors of this coastal region. These golden parcels of delight feature flaky pastry encasing a savory filling of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a touch of tradition. With every bite, you’ll experience the warmth of comfort food and the time-honored essence of Cornish culinary heritage.
Why Choose Cornish Beef Pasties? Cornish Beef Pasties are a delightful embodiment of comfort and history, paying homage to the iconic pasty that has been enjoyed for generations in Cornwall. These hand-held treasures are not only a flavorful treat but also a culinary link to the past. The combination of succulent beef, earthy vegetables, and buttery pastry creates a symphony of textures and tastes that’s perfect for those who appreciate the heritage and heartiness of classic dishes.
Ingredients (Makes 4 Pasties):
For the Pastry:
- 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 pound (450g) beef stew meat, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small rutabaga (swede), peeled and diced
- 1 carrot, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons beef broth or water
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Pastry In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling In a mixing bowl, combine the diced beef, finely chopped onion, diced potatoes, diced rutabaga, diced carrot, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Drizzle Worcestershire sauce and beef broth (or water) over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Preheat and Roll Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough into circles, about 8-10 inches in diameter.
Step 4: Assemble the Pasties Divide the prepared filling equally onto one half of each pastry circle, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges of the pastry together and crimp to seal.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection Place the assembled Cornish Beef Pasties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut a small slit or poke a hole in the top of each pasty to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the pasties are golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
Step 6: Cool and Serve Once out of the oven, let the Cornish Beef Pasties cool slightly before serving. These pasties are delicious both warm and at room temperature. Enjoy the comfort of a hand-held meal that brings the essence of Cornwall to your plate.
Conclusion: Cornish Beef Pasties are a savory journey into the heart of Cornwall, where tradition and comfort intertwine to create a culinary masterpiece. With their flaky pastry and hearty filling, these pasties offer a taste of history and a glimpse into the time-honored flavors of the region. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the spirit of the pasty, and savor each bite as you experience the warmth of tradition and the satisfying simplicity of a Cornish classic.
