Looking for a delicious treat that will transport your taste buds straight to Portugal? Look no further! Portuguese custard tarts, or pastéis de nata, are a mouthwatering delicacy that Mary Berry herself has put her own spin on. If you’re wondering how to recreate these delectable pastries in your own kitchen, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making Mary Berry’s version of Portuguese custard tarts, so get ready to indulge in a divine blend of creamy custard and flaky pastry. Let’s dive right in!
Portuguese Custard Tarts Mary Berry
If you’re a fan of sweet treats and delightful pastries, then Portuguese custard tarts are a must-try. These delectable treats, also known as Pastéis de Nata, have gained popularity around the world for their creamy custard filling encased in flaky pastry. In this article, we’ll explore the mouthwatering world of Portuguese custard tarts with a delightful twist – the Portuguese custard tarts Mary Berry style. Get ready to embark on a journey of flavors as we dive into the history, ingredients, and step-by-step recipe of these irresistible Portuguese treats.
What are Portuguese Custard Tarts?
Portuguese custard tarts, or Pastéis de Nata, are a traditional Portuguese pastry that originated in the early 19th century. They are small, cup-shaped tarts made with a delicate and crispy puff pastry crust, filled with a rich, velvety custard filling. The custard is typically flavored with a hint of vanilla and has a smooth and creamy texture. The surface of the tarts is caramelized to a beautiful golden brown, adding a delightful crunch to every bite.
The History of Portuguese Custard Tarts
The story of Portuguese custard tarts can be traced back to the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, Portugal. The monks of the monastery began selling the tarts to support themselves after the religious orders were dissolved in the 1820s. The recipe for these delectable treats was eventually sold to a sugar refinery owner named Domingos Rafael Alves, who opened a pastry shop called “Pastéis de Belém” in 1837. The shop is still in operation today and remains one of the most famous spots to indulge in authentic Portuguese custard tarts.
Over the years, Portuguese custard tarts have become a beloved pastry not only in Portugal but around the world. Their unique combination of flavors, crispy pastry, and creamy custard filling has captured the hearts of pastry enthusiasts everywhere. Now, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make up these delicious treats.
The Ingredients for Portuguese Custard Tarts Mary Berry Style
When it comes to making Portuguese custard tarts Mary Berry style, you’ll need a few key ingredients to create that perfect balance of flavors. Here’s a list of the main ingredients you’ll need:
- Puff pastry: The foundation of Portuguese custard tarts is a delicate and flaky puff pastry crust. You can either make your own puff pastry from scratch or use store-bought puff pastry for convenience.
- Egg yolks: The custard filling is made using egg yolks, which give the tarts their rich and creamy texture.
- Sugar: To sweeten the custard filling, you’ll need a moderate amount of granulated sugar.
- Cornstarch: Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, ensuring the custard has the perfect consistency.
- Milk: Whole milk is used to create a luscious and creamy custard filling.
- Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the custard.
- Lemon peel: Some recipes call for a small amount of lemon peel to enhance the custard’s overall taste.
- Cinnamon: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top of the tarts adds a delightful hint of warmth and spice.
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Portuguese custard tarts Mary Berry style.
How to Make Portuguese Custard Tarts Mary Berry Style
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (425°F) to ensure it’s hot and ready when the tarts are prepared.
- Prepare the puff pastry: If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, thaw it according to the package instructions. If you’re making your own puff pastry, prepare the dough as directed in your chosen recipe.
- Roll out the pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a thin sheet. Aim for a thickness of about 2-3mm.
- Cut and shape the pastry: Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the rolled-out pastry. The diameter of the circles should be slightly larger than the size of your tart molds.
- Line the tart molds: Gently press the pastry circles into your tart molds, ensuring they cover the bottom and sides completely.
- Prepare the custard filling: In a saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until well combined. Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the vanilla extract and lemon peel, and place the saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook the custard: Stir the custard mixture constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Fill the tart molds: Pour the cooled custard into the prepared tart molds, filling them about 3/4 of the way full.
- Bake to perfection: Place the filled tart molds in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the custard is set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Final touch: Once the tarts are out of the oven, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the tops for added flavor and visual appeal. Let the tarts cool before removing them from the molds.
And there you have it – mouthwatering Portuguese custard tarts Mary Berry style, ready to be enjoyed. These tarts are best served warm or at room temperature, allowing you to experience the delightful contrast between the crispy pastry and creamy custard filling. Pair them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgence.
Whether you’re a baking aficionado or simply someone with a sweet tooth, Portuguese custard tarts Mary Berry style are a treat worth trying. Their rich history, unforgettable flavors, and ease of preparation make them a delightful addition to any dessert spread. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the aroma of these heavenly tarts fill your kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you!
Mary Berry makes a custard tart | Cooking Retro Style | Good Afternoon
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Portuguese custard tarts?
Portuguese custard tarts, also known as pastéis de nata, are a traditional Portuguese pastry. They consist of a crisp, flaky pastry shell filled with a creamy, sweet custard that is typically flavored with vanilla and cinnamon. These tarts are often enjoyed as a dessert or a snack.
Can I use Mary Berry’s recipe for Portuguese custard tarts?
Yes, you can use Mary Berry’s recipe for Portuguese custard tarts. Mary Berry, a renowned British chef and television presenter, has shared her own version of this delicious treat. Her recipe offers detailed instructions on how to make the pastry shell and the custard filling, ensuring you can recreate the authentic taste of Portuguese custard tarts at home.
Are Portuguese custard tarts difficult to make?
While Portuguese custard tarts may seem challenging to make, they are certainly achievable with the right recipe and instructions. Mary Berry’s recipe simplifies the process, providing clear steps to create the pastry and custard filling. With a bit of patience and practice, you can master the art of making these delightful tarts.
What ingredients are needed to make Portuguese custard tarts using Mary Berry’s recipe?
To make Portuguese custard tarts using Mary Berry’s recipe, you will need ingredients such as puff pastry, egg yolks, granulated sugar, cornstarch, whole milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. The complete list of ingredients and their quantities can be found in Mary Berry’s recipe.
Can I customize the flavors of Portuguese custard tarts?
Yes, you can customize the flavors of Portuguese custard tarts to suit your taste preferences. While the traditional recipe calls for vanilla and cinnamon, you can experiment with different flavor variations. For example, you could add lemon zest for a refreshing twist or incorporate almond extract for a nutty flavor. Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe according to your liking.
Final Thoughts
Portuguese custard tarts are a delightful treat that has gained popularity worldwide, thanks to the famous baker Mary Berry. With her expertise and passion for baking, Mary Berry has shared her recipe for these delectable tarts, ensuring a perfect balance of creamy custard and flaky pastry. The key to achieving the authentic Portuguese flavors is to use a rich custard filling infused with vanilla and baked until it develops a caramelized topping. Whether you are a fan of Mary Berry or simply curious about Portuguese custard tarts, this recipe is a must-try for any dessert enthusiast.
