Delia Smith Shortcrust Pastry Recipe

Delia Smith's Shortcrust Pastry, a classic foundation for many delightful dishes, exemplifies the beauty of simplicity in baking. This pastry combines the basic ingredients of flour, fat, and water to create a light, crisp crust that perfectly complements both sweet and savory fillings. The technique lies not just in the ingredients but in the method of bringing them together to achieve that 'melt in the mouth' presence that elevates any dish it's part of.

Ingredients for the Shortcrust Pastry

• Plain flour: 110g, for the base
• Salt: A pinch, to enhance flavor
• Lard: 25g, adding shortness to the pastry
• Butter: 25g, for flavor and flakiness
• Cold water: About 1-2 tablespoons, to bind the dough

Preparation Instructions

1. Sift the Flour: Begin with sifting the flour and salt from a height into a bowl to incorporate air, making the pastry lighter.
2. Incorporate Fat: Add small lumps of both lard and butter to the flour. Cut the fats into the flour using a knife, then rub them in with your fingertips to get a crumbly mixture.
3. Adding Water: Gradually mix in cold water until the dough begins to cling together. Once it forms a ball, avoid overworking it.
4. Resting: Wrap the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for relaxing the gluten strands, making the pastry easier to roll and less prone to shrinking.

Storage and Reheating

Wrap the pastry or pastry-based dishes in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at a moderate temperature until warm throughout. Most pastry dishes can also be frozen; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

A serving of shortcrust pastry (assuming it serves 4) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250-300
• Carbs: 20-25g
• Fats: 15-20g
• Protein: 3-4g This can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

FAQ about the Shortcrust Pastry

• Can I make this pastry vegan? Yes, by substituting the butter and lard with vegan alternatives.
• Why is my pastry tough? Overworking the dough or adding too much water can lead to toughness.
• Can I freeze the pastry? Yes, it freezes well. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.

The essence of Delia Smith's Shortcrust Pastry lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it a cornerstone recipe for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you're making a savory quiche or a sweet tart, this pastry provides a crisp, buttery base that's sure to elevate your dish. Original recipe by Delia Smith, a testament to the timeless appeal of well-crafted basics in the culinary world.