Transport your taste buds to the picturesque landscapes of Cornwall with these delectable Cornish Beef Pasties. A beloved staple of British cuisine, these hearty hand pies are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, tender potatoes, and aromatic herbs, all encased in flaky puff pastry. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal on-the-go or served as part of a cozy dinner spread, these pasties are sure to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Let’s embark on a culinary journey and learn how to make these iconic British treats right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs. ground beef
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 packages puff pastry
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Filling: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced potatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, chopped fresh parsley, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets to approximately 1/8 inch thickness. Using a round pastry cutter or a plate as a guide, cut out circles of dough, approximately 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Fill and Fold Pasties: Spoon a generous portion of the beef and potato filling onto one half of each pastry circle, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal, then crimp with a fork to create a decorative edge.
- Ventilate and Bake: Place the assembled pasties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, make a small slit or two in the top of each pasty to allow steam to escape during baking. Brush the tops of the pasties with a beaten egg for a golden finish, if desired.
- Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the pasties for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky, and the filling is cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the pasties from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious Cornish Beef Pasties hot or at room temperature, with your favorite condiments such as ketchup or HP sauce.
Cook’s Notes:
- Filling Variations: Feel free to customize the filling with additional vegetables such as carrots, peas, or swede (rutabaga) for added flavor and texture.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it until ready to assemble the pasties. Alternatively, you can assemble the pasties ahead of time and freeze them before baking for a convenient make-ahead meal option.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meatless ground beef alternative for a vegetarian version of these pasties.
- Cheese Addition: Add a sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese to the filling before sealing the pasties for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I freeze unbaked Cornish Beef Pasties? Yes, assembled but unbaked pasties can be frozen on a baking sheet until firm, then transferred to a freezer bag or container for long-term storage. When ready to bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
- How long do baked Cornish Beef Pasties last? Baked pasties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
In conclusion, Cornish Beef Pasties are a delightful blend of savory flavors and flaky pastry that capture the essence of British comfort food. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal on-the-go or as part of a leisurely picnic, these pasties are sure to satisfy your cravings and transport you to the charming countryside of Cornwall. With their simple ingredients and delicious taste, these iconic hand pies are a must-try for any food lover.
Try your hand at making Cornish Beef Pasties and experience the timeless appeal of this beloved British classic. With each bite, you’ll taste the rich heritage and culinary tradition that make these pasties a cherished favorite.
That concludes our journey through the world of Cornish Beef Pasties. Enjoy every savory, flaky bite!