Cornish Beef Pasties Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to our delicious Cornish Beef Pasties recipe! This traditional British dish is a true crowd-pleaser, packed with savory flavors and hearty ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a satisfying meal, our Cornish Beef Pasties are sure to impress. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating these golden delights from scratch. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the crust:

– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

– ½ cup ice water

For the filling:

– 1 pound beef, diced

– 1 large onion, diced

– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

– 1 carrot, peeled and diced

– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of milk)

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the crust

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Gradually add the ice water, a little at a time, while stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the filling

In a separate bowl, combine the diced beef, onion, potatoes, carrot, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 3: Assemble the pasties

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of approximately ⅛ inch. Using a plate or a circular cutter, cut out circles of dough, approximately 6-8 inches in diameter.

Place a generous amount of the beef filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a semi-circle shape. Press the edges together firmly and crimp with a fork to seal.

Transfer the pasties to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the egg wash to give them a golden color when baked.

Step 4: Bake and serve

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pasties are golden brown and crispy.

Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Cornish Beef Pasties can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Variations

While the classic Cornish Beef Pasties recipe is irresistible on its own, you can always add your own personal touch. Here are a few variations to consider:

– Cheese and Onion: Add grated cheddar cheese and sautéed onions to the filling for an extra flavor boost.

– Steak and Ale: Substitute part of the beef with cooked diced steak and add a splash of your favorite ale for a rich and indulgent twist.

– Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian option, replace the beef with a medley of roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.

Tips

– Make sure your butter and water are cold when making the crust, as this helps create a flaky texture.

– Experiment with different seasonings in the filling, such as herbs like thyme or rosemary, to add extra depth of flavor.

– If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pie crust instead of making it from scratch.

Conclusion

Cornish Beef Pasties are a classic dish that never fails to satisfy. With a buttery, flaky crust and a deliciously seasoned filling, these pasties are perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or get creative with your own variations, you’re in for a treat. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a taste of British culinary heritage!

FAQs

1. Can I freeze the unbaked pasties?

Yes, you can! Place the assembled, unbaked pasties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, simply brush them with egg wash and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

2. How do I reheat leftover pasties?

To reheat leftover pasties, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pasties on a baking sheet. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a microwave for a quick fix, although the crust may not be as crispy.

3. Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Absolutely! While the traditional recipe calls for beef, you can experiment with different proteins such as chicken, pork, or even seafood. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the filling is cooked through.