I. What is Pastel de Nata?
Pastel de Nata, also known as Portuguese custard tart or egg tart, is a popular pastry that originated in Portugal. It consists of a flaky puff pastry shell filled with a creamy custard made from eggs, sugar, milk, and flour. The top of the custard is caramelized to create a deliciously sweet and slightly burnt flavor. Pastel de Nata is typically served warm with a dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar on top.
II. History of Pastel de Nata
The history of Pastel de Nata dates back to the 18th century when Catholic monks at the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon used egg whites to starch their clothes, leaving them with a surplus of egg yolks. To avoid wasting the yolks, they began using them to make custard tarts. The recipe was kept a secret for many years until the monastery closed in the 1830s, and the recipe was sold to a sugar refinery in Lisbon. The refinery then opened a bakery called Pastéis de Belém, which still operates today and is famous for its delicious Pastel de Nata.
III. Ingredients used in Pastel de Nata
The key ingredients used in making Pastel de Nata include:
– Puff pastry: The flaky and buttery pastry shell that holds the custard filling.
– Eggs: Used to make the creamy custard filling.
– Sugar: Adds sweetness to the custard.
– Milk: Provides richness and creaminess to the custard.
– Flour: Helps thicken the custard and give it structure.
– Cinnamon: Often sprinkled on top of the tart for added flavor.
IV. How to make Pastel de Nata
To make Pastel de Nata, follow these steps:
1. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into circles to fit the tart molds.
2. Press the pastry circles into the molds, making sure to create a thin and even layer.
3. In a saucepan, heat the milk and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and flour until smooth.
5. Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
6. Return the custard mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened.
7. Pour the custard into the pastry shells and bake in a preheated oven until the tops are caramelized.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
V. Variations of Pastel de Nata
While the traditional Pastel de Nata is made with a flaky puff pastry shell and creamy custard filling, there are several variations of this popular pastry. Some common variations include:
– Chocolate Pastel de Nata: Made with a chocolate-flavored custard filling.
– Almond Pastel de Nata: Includes almond extract or ground almonds in the custard.
– Fruit-filled Pastel de Nata: Filled with fresh fruit such as berries or sliced bananas.
– Savory Pastel de Nata: Made with a savory custard filling, often with cheese or herbs added.
VI. Serving and enjoying Pastel de Nata
Pastel de Nata is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. It can be served as a delicious dessert or enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. To enhance the flavor, sprinkle cinnamon or powdered sugar on top before serving. Pastel de Nata is a versatile pastry that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Whether you prefer the traditional version or a creative variation, Pastel de Nata is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and delight your taste buds.