Cornish Beef Pasties

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry Dough
   In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and rub it into the flour with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water while mixing until a dough forms. Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Beef
   Add the ground beef (or shredded roast) to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Remove from heat.
4. Add Vegetables
   Mix the diced potatoes and carrots into the beef mixture. Stir until evenly combined. The vegetables will finish cooking inside the pastry during baking.
5. Roll Out the Dough
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 8–9 inches (20–23 cm) in diameter.
6. Fill the Pasties
   Place a generous scoop of filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge. Fold the other half over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
7. Seal the Edges
   Press the edges together firmly and crimp with your fingers or a fork to seal. Brush the tops with beaten egg (and milk if using) for a golden finish.
8. Bake
   Place pasties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
9. Cool Slightly & Serve
   Allow the pasties to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving so the filling sets slightly.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 pasties
Difficulty Level: Medium

Variations & Substitutions

• Traditional Version: Use diced raw beef instead of ground beef for a more authentic Cornish texture.
• Cheesy Pasties: Add ½ cup (50 g) shredded cheddar to the filling.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with mushrooms and lentils.
• Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes.

Serving Suggestions