Boiling water pastry –If you’re looking to elevate your baking game, mastering the art of hot-water crust pastry is a must! This versatile pastry is perfect for savory pies and can make any dish feel special. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and get baking!
Hot-Water Crust Pastry
Hot-water crust pastry is a unique preparation method that starts with melting fat in boiling water, which allows for a tender yet sturdy crust. Whether you’re preparing a classic meat pie or a hearty vegetable tart, this pastry is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt, stirring well to ensure even distribution.
- In a saucepan, combine the butter and water (and vinegar, if using) and bring to a boil. Stir until the butter has melted completely.
- Pour the hot liquid into the flour mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Be cautious; the mixture will be hot!
- Once the dough becomes cool enough to handle, knead it gently until it’s smooth and elastic. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. This helps to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
- After resting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Be sure to line your tart or pie pan with the pastry, trimming any excess dough from the edges.
- Fill with your favorite filling—be it meat, vegetables, or even a sweet fruit concoction—then brush the edges with beaten egg for a lovely golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the filling is cooked through.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving and enjoy your homemade hot-water crust pastry dish!
This hot-water crust pastry is not only delicious but also remarkably simple to make. With its flaky texture and rich flavor, it will undoubtedly become a go-to recipe in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients and get started on a wonderful culinary adventure!