CORNISH BEEF PASTIES

 

Ingredients

A Collection of Ingredients for Your Cornish Beef Pasties
For the Pastry:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup cold water
For the Filling:
1 lb lean beef, cut into small cubes
1 large potato, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
1 carrot, peeled and diced
1/2 cup frozen peas
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/4 cup beef broth or water
For Egg Wash:
1 egg, beaten

Instructions

A Fusion of Savory Fillings and Flaky Pastry

1. Preparing the Pastry: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Bringing the Dough Together: Gradually add the cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Do not overmix. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

3. Preparing the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced beef, chopped onion, diced potato, diced carrot, frozen peas, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.

4. Assembling the Pasties: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (approximately 6-8 inches in diameter) to cut out pastry rounds.

5. Filling and Folding: Place a generous scoop of the filling mixture onto one half of each pastry round. Moisten the edges of the pastry with water and fold the other half over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal.

6. Adding the Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pasties with the beaten egg to create a golden and shiny crust during baking.

7. Baking to Perfection: Place the assembled pasties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pasties are golden brown and the filling is cooked through.

8. Cooling and Enjoying: Remove the pasties from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Cornish Beef Pasties warm or at room temperature.

Tips and Variations:
Elevating Your Cornish Beef Pasties Experience

Tips:

For a flakier crust, ensure that the butter is cold and not overworked into the dough.
Variations:

Vegetarian Twist: Replace the beef with a combination of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and other favorite vegetables for a meatless version.
Pairing Suggestion: Serve your Cornish Beef Pasties with a side salad or a bowl of hearty tomato soup for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Storage and Enjoyment: Store any leftover pasties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the flaky texture of the pastry.

Cook’s Note: This recipe captures the essence of rustic comfort in every bite. As you savor the tender beef, the flavorful vegetables, and the flaky pastry, take a moment to appreciate the way these elements come together to create a satisfying and delightful experience. These pasties aren’t just about taste; they’re a celebration of culinary craftsmanship that transforms basic ingredients into a handheld meal, perfect for sharing with loved ones and indulging in the pleasures of a well-prepared classic.