Suet pastry is a traditional British pastry that is widely used in savory pies and puddings. It has a rich and buttery flavor, and its unique texture makes it perfect for hearty meals. Suet pastry is made with a combination of flour, suet, and cold water. It is easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it a popular choice for home cooks. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making suet pastry from scratch.
Ingredients
To make suet pastry, you will need the following ingredients:
225g self-raising flour
100g shredded beef suet
A pinch of salt
Cold water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Before starting, make sure that all your ingredients are at room temperature. Sift the flour and salt into a mixing bowl, then add the shredded beef suet.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients
Using a knife, gently mix the ingredients together until they are well combined. Gradually add cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing the dough, as this will result in a tough pastry.
Step 3: Rest the dough
Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the pastry to firm up and become easier to handle.
Step 4: Roll out the pastry
Once the dough has rested, remove it from the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough to the desired thickness, depending on the recipe you are using.
Step 5: Use the pastry
Use the pastry according to your recipe. Suet pastry is perfect for savory pies, such as steak and kidney pie or chicken and mushroom pie. It can also be used for steamed puddings, such as spotted dick or jam roly-poly.
Nutrition
Suet pastry is high in calories and fat, as it contains beef suet. However, it is also a good source of energy and can be a great comfort food. It is important to consume suet pastry in moderation and to balance it with other healthy foods in your diet.
Conclusion
Suet pastry is a classic British delight that has been enjoyed for generations. Its rich and buttery flavor, combined with its unique texture, makes it perfect for hearty meals. Making suet pastry from scratch is easy and requires minimal effort. By following these simple steps, you can make delicious suet pastry at home and enjoy it with your favorite savory pies and puddings.