Traditional Homemade Pasties

Introduction

These traditional homemade pasties are a hearty and delicious meal, perfect for any time of the year. Packed with savory fillings and wrapped in a flaky crust, pasties are a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Originating from Cornwall, England, these hand-held pies have become a beloved dish worldwide.

Ingredients

For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold water
For the Filling:
- 1 lb beef skirt steak, diced
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup rutabaga or turnip, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the chilled butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough lightly, form it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the diced beef, potatoes, onion, and rutabaga or turnip.
- Season with salt and pepper, mixing well.
Assemble the Pasties:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each portion into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Place a generous amount of filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a semicircle and crimp the edges to seal.
Bake the Pasties:
- Place the pasties on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the pasties to cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy them warm as a main dish or a hearty snack.

Tips for Perfect Pasties

Crimping the Edges: Ensure the edges are well crimped to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
Dough Consistency: The dough should be firm enough to hold the filling but not too dry. Adjust the water as needed when preparing the dough.
Filling Variations: Feel free to customize the filling with ingredients such as chicken, pork, or a variety of vegetables to suit your preference.

Conclusion

These traditional homemade pasties are a comforting and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed at any meal. With their delicious filling and flaky crust, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic beef and vegetable filling or experiment with your own variations, these pasties are sure to impress.