Welsh Costrada

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the Spanish Costrada to Welsh cuisine, we incorporate traditional Welsh ingredients such as local cheese, leeks, and bacon. The original recipe is transformed into a savory pie, giving it a distinct Welsh touch. The flavors are enhanced with traditional Welsh herbs and spices, creating a unique taste that reflects the culinary traditions of Wales. We alse have the original recipe for Costrada, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water
• 1 cup (100g) grated Welsh cheese (such as Caerphilly or Cheddar) 1 cup (100g) grated Welsh cheese (such as Caerphilly or Cheddar)
• 1 cup (150g) diced bacon 1 cup (150g) diced bacon
• 1 cup (150g) sliced leeks 1 cup (150g) sliced leeks
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 30g, 16g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 1g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and cold butter. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same skillet, sauté the leeks and garlic until softened. Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. 6.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to line a pie dish.
7. 7.
   Line the pie dish with the rolled-out dough, trimming any excess.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle half of the grated Welsh cheese over the bottom of the pie crust. Top with the cooked bacon and sautéed leeks mixture. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
9. 9.
   Roll out the remaining dough and use it to cover the pie, sealing the edges. Cut a few slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape.
10. 10.
    Brush the top crust with the beaten egg wash.
11. 11.
    Bake the Welsh Costrada in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
12. 12.
    Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Welsh cheese — Opt for a locally produced Welsh cheese like Caerphilly or Cheddar to truly capture the essence of Welsh cuisine. The cheese should be grated and evenly distributed throughout the pie for maximum flavor.
• Leeks — Make sure to thoroughly clean the leeks before slicing them. Use only the white and light green parts of the leeks for a milder flavor.
• Bacon — Choose a high-quality bacon that is not overly salty. Crispy bacon adds a delightful texture and smoky flavor to the Welsh Costrada.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
• Serve the Welsh Costrada with a side of fresh salad greens for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the filling.
• Make the pie crust in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use for a quicker preparation.
• Leftover Welsh Costrada can be enjoyed cold or reheated for a delicious meal the next day.

Serving advice

Serve the Welsh Costrada warm, either as a main course or as part of a Welsh-themed brunch. Accompany it with a side of mixed greens or a traditional Welsh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Welsh Costrada on a rustic wooden platter to showcase its homemade charm. Cut the pie into wedges and garnish with fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for an appealing presentation.