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Instructions
1. Prepare the Pastry:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and cold vegetable shortening. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub the fats into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs with small pea-sized clumps of butter.
- Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until a dough begins to form. You may need 6-8 tablespoons of water, depending on the humidity. Be careful not to add too much water – the dough should be slightly sticky but not wet.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently just to bring it together. Shape it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to rest.
2. Make the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, add the onion, potato, and swede. Stir to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften slightly.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Add Worcestershire sauce and stir well. Remove the filling from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature before using.
3. Assemble the Pasties:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once the dough has rested, divide it into 6-8 equal portions and roll each portion into a ball. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball of dough into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.
- Place a generous spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Carefully fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork to ensure they are tightly sealed.
- Brush the top of each pasty with the beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.
4. Bake the Pasties:
- Place the assembled pasties onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the pasties are golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
- Remove the pasties from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love These Cornish Beef Pasties
✔ Hearty and Filling – The combination of beef, potatoes, and swede creates a rich and satisfying filling that will keep you full for hours.
✔ Perfectly Portable – Just like their original purpose for miners, these pasties are ideal for lunches, picnics, or as an easy meal on the go.
✔ Golden, Flaky Crust – The homemade pastry is wonderfully flaky and crisp, providing the perfect texture to complement the savory filling.
✔ Customizable Filling – While the traditional filling includes beef, potatoes, and swede, you can make it your own by adding vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or peas, or even substituting the beef for lamb or chicken.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – These pasties store well in the fridge and can even be frozen before baking, making them a great option for meal prepping or making ahead for later.
Storage Tips
🧊 To Store – Leftover pasties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🧊 To Freeze – You can freeze the pasties either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, arrange the unbaked pasties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 50 minutes.
🧊 To Reheat – Reheat pasties in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Final Thoughts
These Cornish Beef Pasties are the perfect blend of savory, satisfying flavors wrapped in a flaky, buttery pastry. They make for a wonderful meal any time of the day, whether enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. The history and tradition behind this dish only add to its charm, making it a comforting meal that brings a taste of Cornwall to your home.
If you’re looking for a delicious, homemade, and portable meal, these Cornish pasties are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think! 😋
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