Cornmeal Pastry

Cornmeal Pastry Recipe - Vegetarian Dish with Flour, Cornmeal, and Paprika

Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Cornmeal pastry is a delicious and versatile pastry that adds a unique texture and flavor to a variety of dishes. This recipe combines the richness of butter and shortening with the subtle crunch of cornmeal to create a pastry that is perfect for both sweet and savory dishes.

History

Cornmeal pastry has its roots in traditional Southern cuisine, where cornmeal is a staple ingredient. The addition of cornmeal to pastry dough adds a rustic and hearty quality that pairs well with a wide range of fillings. This recipe puts a modern twist on a classic technique, creating a pastry that is both flavorful and easy to work with.

Ingredients

2 cups unsifted flour
0.67 cup cornmeal
1.5 tsp each paprika, dill, and dry mustard
0.5 cup chilled butter or margarine, cut into pieces
2 tbsp chilled vegetable shortening

How to prepare

In a food processor, combine flour, cornmeal, 1 tsp of salt, and the spices. Add the butter and shortening. Process until the mixture resembles crumbs. While the motor is running, gradually add 0.33 to 0.5 cup of ice water until the dough forms a ball. Remove the dough and flatten it slightly. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle measuring 16 x 14 inches. Cut the dough crosswise into 0.5 inch strips. Weave the strips tightly together on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Wrap the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate.

Variations

For a sweeter pastry, add a tablespoon of sugar to the dough before chilling. You can also experiment with different spices and herbs to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making cornmeal pastry, it's important to keep the butter and shortening cold to ensure a flaky and tender crust. Be sure to handle the dough gently and avoid overworking it, as this can result in a tough pastry. For best results, chill the dough before rolling it out and weaving it into a lattice pattern.

Serving Suggestions

Cornmeal pastry is a great addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Serve it alongside a hearty stew or soup for a comforting meal, or top it with fresh fruit and whipped cream for a delicious dessert.

Cooking Techniques

To ensure a flaky and tender crust, be sure to keep the butter and shortening cold throughout the preparation process. Handle the dough gently and avoid overworking it to achieve the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cornmeal on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of flour. You can also use all butter or all shortening in place of the combination of the two.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cornmeal pastry dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before using. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

To showcase the beautiful lattice pattern of the cornmeal pastry, serve it on a platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. You can also top it with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Cornmeal pastry pairs well with a wide range of fillings, from savory meats and vegetables to sweet fruits and custards. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cornmeal pastry in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pastry in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cornmeal pastry contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option for a pastry, making it a great choice for those looking to indulge without overdoing it.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cornmeal pastry contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help fuel your day.

Fats

Cornmeal pastry is a rich source of fats, with each serving containing approximately 15 grams of fat. Fats are essential for overall health and can help the body absorb important vitamins and minerals.

Proteins

Each serving of cornmeal pastry contains approximately 3 grams of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an essential nutrient for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Cornmeal pastry is a good source of iron, magnesium, and vitamin E. Iron is important for oxygen transport in the body, magnesium is essential for muscle function, and vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and may contain traces of soy. It is important to check all ingredients for potential allergens before consuming.

Summary

Cornmeal pastry is a delicious and versatile pastry that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. With a relatively low calorie count, it is a great option for those looking for a tasty treat without the guilt.

Summary

Cornmeal pastry is a delicious and versatile pastry that is perfect for both sweet and savory dishes. With a rich flavor and a unique texture, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living on a farm in the countryside. My mother was an excellent cook, and she taught me everything she knew about creating delicious meals from scratch. One day, while we were preparing for a big family gathering, she introduced me to a new recipe that would soon become one of my favorites - Cornmeal Pastry.

It all started when my mother's best friend, Mrs. Jenkins, came over for a visit. Mrs. Jenkins was known for her incredible baking skills, and she always had a new recipe to share. On this particular day, she brought with her a basket of freshly baked Cornmeal Pastries. The moment I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make them myself.

Mrs. Jenkins was more than happy to teach me the secret to her delicious Cornmeal Pastry. She explained that the key to a perfect crust was using a combination of cornmeal and flour, which gave the pastry a unique texture and flavor. She also shared her technique for making the filling, which included fresh corn, onions, and a blend of savory spices.

As I watched Mrs. Jenkins work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel inspired. I knew that I had to master this recipe and make it a staple in my own cooking repertoire. After spending the entire day baking alongside Mrs. Jenkins, I finally had a batch of Cornmeal Pastries that were just as delicious as hers.

From that day on, Cornmeal Pastry became a regular feature at our family gatherings. Everyone raved about how delicious they were, and I was proud to have learned such a special recipe from Mrs. Jenkins. Over the years, I continued to perfect my technique, experimenting with different fillings and variations of the pastry crust.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. I've made sweet versions with fresh fruit fillings, as well as savory versions with hearty vegetables and meats. No matter how I choose to prepare it, Cornmeal Pastry always brings a smile to the faces of my family and friends.

As I grew older and had children of my own, I made sure to pass down the recipe for Cornmeal Pastry to them. I taught them the same techniques that Mrs. Jenkins had taught me, and I watched as they too fell in love with this special dish. Now, whenever we have family gatherings, my children take over the kitchen and bake up a batch of Cornmeal Pastries to share with their loved ones.

I truly believe that food has a way of bringing people together, and Cornmeal Pastry is a perfect example of that. It's a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of the bond I shared with my mother and Mrs. Jenkins. I am grateful for the memories and the delicious meals that this recipe has brought into my life.

As I sit here reflecting on the journey that led me to discover the recipe for Cornmeal Pastry, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude. I am grateful for the lessons I learned from my mother and Mrs. Jenkins, and for the joy that sharing this recipe with others has brought me. Cornmeal Pastry will always hold a special place in my heart, as a reminder of the love and connection that food can create.