Cornish Pasty: Heartwarming British Delicacy

The Cornish pasty is like a brilliant pearl hidden in the culinary map of Britain, carrying a strong regional characteristic and simple deliciousness. It emits a unique charm over the course of time, warming the stomachs and hearts of countless diners.

To make this traditional delicacy, various ingredients need to be carefully prepared. Minced beef, as the core of the filling, releases a rich meat aroma when stir-fried in the pan until it changes color, instantly awakening the expectation of the taste buds. Add onions and carrots and stir-fry together. The sweet aroma of the onions and the sweetness of the carrots gradually seep out and interweave with the beef aroma, playing the prelude to deliciousness. Then add flour and stir evenly. As it is fried, the flour gradually turns golden, not only adding a rich texture to the filling but also laying the foundation for the subsequent thick sauce. Slowly pour in the beef broth and stir while pouring to fully integrate the sauce and the ingredients. Under the effect of heat, cook until the sauce is thick and velvety smooth. At this point, add salt and black pepper for precise seasoning, and then add peas and cook until they are fully cooked. The tender green and freshness of the peas inject vitality and vigor into the filling.

Meanwhile, potatoes are also fulfilling their mission on another stage. Cut the peeled potatoes into small pieces, cook them in boiling water, fish them out and drain. They will add a different texture to the pasty in a soft and waxy form. Beat the eggs and set them aside. The golden egg liquid seems to be a magical potion that gives the pastry a shiny and crispy texture.

Roll the pastry into a thin sheet and carefully place it at the bottom of the baking tray. Use a fork to prick some small holes. This seemingly simple step is extremely crucial as it can prevent the pastry from puffing up during the baking process and ensure a uniform texture in every bite. Next, spread the carefully cooked beef filling on the pastry, and then evenly spread a layer of potato pieces. The two snuggle up to each other like tacit partners. Finally, gently brush the pastry with the egg liquid using a brush. This layer of egg liquid will gradually form a golden and shiny coat in the oven.

Put it in the oven preheated to 200°C, and a magical transformation begins. In the high-temperature embrace of the oven, the pastry gradually becomes golden and crispy, making a slight "sizzling" sound, as if it is singing cheerfully. As time passes, the filling inside the pasty also becomes more delicious under the penetration of heat. The mellowness of the beef, the sweetness of the vegetables and the charm of various seasonings perfectly blend. When the oven door is opened, an inviting aroma rushes towards you. The golden and crispy Cornish pasty is presented before your eyes, like a fine work of art. Take a bite. The crispness of the pastry and the rich texture of the filling collide in the mouth. The chewiness of the beef, the tenderness of the vegetables, the softness of the potatoes and the rich flavor of the sauce bloom one after another. Every taste bud is immersed in this unique British flavor, feeling the full warmth and satisfaction brought by this delicacy.