Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's both satisfying and easy to make? Look no further than this delicious Cornish pasty recipe! Inspired by the culinary genius of Jamie Oliver, this recipe offers a simple yet incredibly satisfying twist on a classic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend project, these homemade pasties are sure to become a family favorite. Let's get started on this journey into delicious homemade cooking!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike.
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For the Pastry:
- 250g plain flour
- 125g cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 125ml cold water
- Pinch of salt
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For the Filling:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 500g beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 1 large swede, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Making Your Pasty Magic
Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious Cornish pasties.
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Make the pastry: In a large bowl, rub the cold butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in cling film and chill for at least 30 minutes.
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Prepare the filling: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides. Stir in the potato, swede, tomato puree, thyme, and rosemary. Season generously with salt and pepper. Simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
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Assemble the pasties: On a lightly floured surface, roll out half the pastry to a large circle (approximately 25cm diameter). Spoon half of the filling onto one half of the circle, leaving a 2cm border. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing firmly to seal the edges. Crimp the edges using a fork to create a decorative pattern. Repeat with the remaining pastry and filling.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan/Gas Mark 6). Brush the pasties with the beaten egg. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
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Serve: Let the pasties cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Cornish pasties!
Cooking Tips for Pasty Perfection:
- Using cold ingredients is key to a flaky pastry.
- Don't overwork the pastry dough; overmixing will result in a tough pastry.
- Ensure the filling is completely cool before adding it to the pastry to prevent soggy bottoms.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of beef stock or Worcestershire sauce to the filling.
Delicious Variations: Beyond the Classic
- Vegetarian Pasty: Substitute the beef with vegetables like mushrooms, butternut squash, or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Chicken Pasty: Use cooked chicken instead of beef for a lighter, quicker meal.
- Spicy Pasty: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (Per Pasty - Approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Cornish pasty recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a perfect example of delicious dishes that are quick to prepare, making it an ideal quick dinner idea for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend treat. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the rewarding taste of your own creation!