Homemade Cornish Pasties

Cornish pasties are a traditional British dish that consists of a savory filling encased in a flaky pastry. They are perfect for a hearty meal or a portable snack. Here’s how to make delicious Cornish pasties from scratch!

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Intensity:

• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Servings: 4-6 pasties

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
• 6-8 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling:

• 1 cup potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1 medium potato)
• 1 cup swede (rutabaga), peeled and diced (or turnip)
• 1 cup carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 cup ground beef (or diced steak)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Pastry

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead gently until smooth.
3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, swede, carrots, ground beef, onion, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Assemble the Pasties

5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles of dough (about 6-7 inches in diameter).
7. Place a generous spoonful of the filling mixture on one half of each pastry circle, leaving a border around the edge.
8. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg. Fold the pastry over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.

Step 4: Bake the Pasties

9. Place the assembled pasties on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg for a golden finish.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pasties are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

11. Once baked, remove the pasties from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
12. Enjoy your homemade Cornish pasties warm or at room temperature!

Nutrition Information (per pasty, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 2g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 300mg

These Cornish pasties are perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a snack. They can also be made ahead of time and frozen, making them a convenient option for busy days. Enjoy your delicious homemade pasties!