Embark on a culinary adventure with Beef Pasties, a hearty and delightful dish that has graced tables for centuries. Originating from the rugged landscapes of Cornwall, England, these savory pastries were once the staple food of miners who needed a filling and portable meal. Today, beef pasties are celebrated far beyond their Cornish roots, embraced for their delicious combination of flaky pastry filled with meat and vegetables.
In this recipe, we honor the traditional essence of the Cornish pasty but add a modern flair, incorporating a blend of beef, vegetables, and rich seasonings. This fusion creates a comforting meal that is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a nostalgic nod to British heritage.
Beef Pasties
Ingredients for Beef Pasties:
For the filling:
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 celery sticks, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 potato, diced
1 tablespoon flour
1.5 cups beef stock
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/4 cup frozen peas
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the pastry:
3 sheets of frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
Start the Filling: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic, sautéing until they start to soften.
Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned. Sprinkle over the flour and stir well to combine.
Simmer the Sauce: Add the diced potato, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook until the sauce thickens and the potato is tender.
Add Peas and Cool: Stir in the frozen peas and remove from heat. Let the filling cool completely before assembling the pasties.
Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper.
Assemble the Pasties: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets slightly. Cut into rounds using a large cookie cutter. Spoon the cooled filling onto one half of each pastry round, leaving a small border around the edge. Brush the edges with the beaten egg, fold over the pastry to cover the filling, and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pasties with the remaining beaten egg to give them a golden finish.
Bake: Place the pasties on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Serve: Allow the pasties to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature.
These Beef Pasties bring a piece of British tradition to your kitchen, offering a satisfying meal that combines the simplicity of baking with the rich flavors of a well-crafted filling. Perfect for any day of the week, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone seeking a taste of the UK or just a delicious, comforting meal. Enjoy crafting this dish that celebrates a rich history of providing nourishment and pleasure!