Soulful Southern Shortcrust Pastry

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional English shortcrust pastry is infused with the flavors and ingredients commonly found in soul food. The addition of Southern spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder adds a kick of heat and depth to the pastry. The use of buttermilk instead of regular milk adds a tangy flavor and tenderizes the dough. This soulful twist on the classic shortcrust pastry brings a unique and delicious experience to the table. We alse have the original recipe for Shortcrust Pastry, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) buttermilk 1/4 cup (60ml) buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): N/A (varies depending on filling)
• Fat (total, saturated): N/A (varies depending on filling)
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): N/A (varies depending on filling)
• Protein: N/A (varies depending on filling)
• Fiber: N/A (varies depending on filling)
• Salt: N/A (varies depending on filling)

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
2. 2.
   Add the cold cubed butter to the bowl and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   In a separate small bowl, mix together the buttermilk and apple cider vinegar.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the buttermilk mixture into the flour mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together.
5. 5.
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently until it forms a smooth ball.
6. 6.
   Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
7. 7.
   Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
8. 8.
   Use the pastry to line a pie dish or cut it into circles for individual tart shells.
9. 9.
   Fill the pastry with your desired filling and bake according to the specific recipe instructions.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Buttermilk — If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Tips & Tricks

• For a flakier pastry, make sure the butter is cold and work quickly to prevent it from melting into the dough.
• If the dough becomes too soft while rolling, place it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up.
• Experiment with different fillings such as pulled pork, collard greens, or sweet potato for a true taste of Southern soul food.

Serving advice

Serve the Soulful Southern Shortcrust Pastry warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with a side of tangy coleslaw or a fresh green salad.

Presentation advice

For an elegant presentation, garnish the pastry with a sprinkle of paprika and a sprig of fresh herbs. Serve it on a decorative platter or individual plates for a visually appealing dish.