Cornish pasties, a savory delight, often bring to mind images of hearty meals enjoyed by miners. But what are pasties beyond just a food item? Let’s delve into the multifaceted world of pasties, uncovering their history, cultural significance, and even non-culinary uses.
The Cornish pasty, at its core, is a baked pastry filled with a mixture of beef, potatoes, turnip (swede), and onion, seasoned generously with salt and pepper. Traditionally associated with Cornish tin miners, it served as a portable and convenient lunch. The thick crimped edge acted as a handle, allowing miners to hold the pasty without contaminating the filling with their dirty hands.
A Culinary History Rooted in Necessity
The pasty’s ingredients reflected affordability and availability. The meat-to-vegetable ratio varied based on economic conditions. The debate over the inclusion of carrots remains a point of contention among pasty purists. The defining characteristic is the side crimp, distinguishing it from the top-crimped Devonshire pasty. Contrary to some misconceptions, the traditional Cornish pasty did not feature a sweet filling at one end, a characteristic more commonly associated with the Bedfordshire clanger.
Beyond the Recipe: Cultural Significance
The Cornish pasty transcends its simple recipe, embodying cultural heritage and regional identity. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of Cornwall, its mining history, and the resourcefulness of its people. The pasty’s enduring popularity speaks to its deliciousness and its deep-rooted connection to Cornish culture. Even the pronunciation, with its long “a,” sparks regional pride and playful debate.
Pasties: More Than Just Food
While primarily known as a food item, the term “pasty” can extend beyond the culinary realm. Although less common, it can refer to:
- A covering or adhesive: Historically, “pasty” (or “pastey”) could describe a small piece of fabric or adhesive used to cover nipples, particularly in burlesque or striptease performances. This usage is distinct and unrelated to the food.
- A pale or wan complexion: While not a direct definition, the word “pasty” can sometimes be used colloquially to describe someone with a pale or unhealthy-looking complexion, perhaps drawing a parallel to the color of some pastries.
It’s essential to consider the context to understand the intended meaning of “pasty”.
Crafting the Perfect Cornish Pasty: A Recipe
For those interested in creating their own authentic Cornish pasty, here’s a recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
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For the Shortcrust Pastry:
- 400g plain flour
- 100g salted butter, diced
- 100g lard, diced
- Around 80g water
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For the Filling:
- 300g chuck, skirt, or braising steak, gristle and fat removed, chopped
- 125g onion, chopped
- 125g turnip (swede), peeled and thinly sliced
- 250g potato, peeled and thinly sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Thyme, fresh or dried (optional)
- 4 tbs beef stock or water
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Egg Wash:
- 1 egg beaten with ½ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pastry: Combine flour, butter, and lard in a bowl. Mix until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add water until the dough comes together. Knead briefly, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine vegetables and thyme (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper. Add the meat and season again.
- Assemble the Pasties: Divide the pastry into 2 or 4 pieces. Roll out each piece into a circle. Place the filling slightly off-center on each circle. Sprinkle with beef stock or water. Brush the edge with egg wash, fold over the dough, and crimp the edges to seal.
- Bake the Pasties: Place the pasties on a lined baking tray. Brush the tops with egg wash and poke a couple of holes. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 1 hour, reducing the temperature to 180°C (350°F) after 20-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
The Enduring Appeal of the Cornish Pasty
The Cornish pasty’s appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice baker, the Cornish pasty is a rewarding culinary adventure that connects you to a rich cultural heritage.
In conclusion, what are pasties? They are far more than just a combination of meat, vegetables, and pastry. They are a symbol of Cornish history, a testament to culinary resourcefulness, and a delicious reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past.
