Pasteis de nata

Pasteis de Nata are a famous Portuguese delicacy, known for their crispy crust and creamy filling. Here’s how you can make them, with an Italian touch that you might appreciate. For example, you could add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla, which are flavors very present in Italian pastry as well.

Ingredients

• 1 roll of ready-made puff pastry (for a more artisanal touch you could make it at home)
• 250 ml fresh cream
• 2 egg yolks
• 100 g granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (maizena)
• Zest of 1 lemon (or orange for a variation)
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
• Powdered sugar and ground cinnamon for garnish (here too, you can use vanilla)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 250 °C.
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into discs that can line the Pasteis (or muffin) molds.
3. Gently press the pastry discs into the molds.
4. In a saucepan, mix the cream with the cornstarch and sugar. Add the lemon zest and cinnamon stick.
5. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to thicken, stirring continuously.
6. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly for a few minutes before discarding the cinnamon and lemon zest.
7. In a bowl, beat the egg yolks and then add them to the cream mixture, stirring quickly.
8. Pour the filling into the pastry-lined molds.
9. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the surface of the pasteis turns golden and the puff pastry has puffed up.
10. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and cinnamon or vanilla, according to your taste.

Curiosities

Pasteis de Nata are a typical sweet from Belém, near Lisbon, and the original recipe is a closely guarded secret. They are said to have been created by the monks of the Jerónimos Monastery in the 18th century. Today, they are popular all over the world and are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Portugal. Have fun making them and enjoy!