Traditional Gluten-Free Cornish Pasty Recipe

In this Gluten-Free Cornish Pasty recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this classic pastry dish. With a few adjustments, this gluten-free pastry recipe doesn’t compromise flavor or texture, so you can enjoy one of British favorite dishes without gluten.

With a flaky, buttery crust that’s as good as the original, this gluten-free version will impress. Filled with a savory blend of tender meat, vegetables, and aromatic seasonings, the gluten-free Cornish pasty will become a favorite in your kitchen.

Whether you’re gluten-sensitive, have celiac disease, or want to explore a new dish, this recipe allows you to enjoy the taste of a Cornish pasty without worrying about gluten.

 

What is a Cornish pasty?

To put it simply, it is a handheld meat pie that was first invented in Devon, a county in southwest England. The filling in this gluten-free pasty recipe is classic. Thinly sliced beef, potatoes, rutabaga and onions. This Cornish pasty recipe is just as if it was made with gluten…so so good!

how did I come about creating the Cornish Pasty?

Over the last little while, my wonderful readers have asked me repeatedly to create a Cornish Pasty recipe with a flaky crust and the traditional filling.

Creating a gluten-free flaky shortbread crust wasn’t my easiest task. I made it several times until I found the perfect combination of ingredients for this flaky crust, making these Cornish Pasties outstanding.

Honestly, the pasties are so incredibly delicious – The flaky crust and the filling are both perfect!

 

Gluten-Free Cornish Pasty – Step by Step Recipe Details

You can make pasties in various sizes. The most common ones are an 8-inch or 6-inch size. I prefer mine smaller the 6-inch size, mostly because I can’t finish the larger one 🙂 The pasties are super filling, especially if you add a side.

 

 

1) all the ingredients must be well chilled and the dry ingredients whisked together

 

 

2) grate the butter into the dry ingredients

 

 

3) use a fork to mix the butter with the flour, then add sour cream and mix to combine. At this point start adding ice water until the flour starts to stick together and you can form a ball of dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 45 minutes.

 

 

4) make the filling, by mixing the ingredients.

 

 

5) once the dough has chilled for 45 minutes, roll it out into a circle either 8-inch in diameter or 6-inch and about 1/8-inch thick. You can use a plate as your guide and cut the dough around it to form your circle. 

 

 

6) divide the steak mixture into equal portions for each pasty. Spread steak mixture slightly off-center on each round of dough and top with 2 thin slices of butter. Fold dough over the mixture to form a half-moon shape. You can use the parchment paper to lift the dough and fold it over the filling.

 

 

7) wet the tips of your fingers lightly with water and moisten inside of the edges of the pastry dough. Seal the dough and crimp the edges using a fork or your fingers. Place each pasty on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each pasty with egg mixture.

 

 

8) bake for 45 minutes until golden brown. Enjoy!

 

rutabaga VS turnip

I used the classics in this traditional Cornish Pasty recipe: steak meat, potatoes, onions, and rutabaga. Rutabagas are sometimes called swedes or Sweedish turnip. This root vegetable is similar to a turnip except the healthy rutabaga is yellow on the outside and has orange flesh.

Turnip, on the other hand, is white and purple on the outside with white flesh. Rutabagas are also generally larger and stay tender even at larger sizes.

 

Cornish pasty filling options

 

Traditional Beef and Vegetable:

The classic Cornish pasty filling includes diced beef, potatoes, onions, and swede (rutabaga). Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of butter for a savory and hearty filling.

Vegetarian/Vegan: 

For a meatless option, use a combination of vegetables like potatoes, carrots, onions, swede, peas, and spinach. You can also add vegetarian or vegan protein sources like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas.

Chicken and Mushroom: 

Swap out the beef for diced chicken and add sliced mushrooms to create a chicken and mushroom pasty. Season with herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.

Cheese and Onion: 

A simple yet delicious filling consists of grated cheese (Cheddar works well) and finely chopped onions. Add a pinch of black pepper for some extra zing.

Pork and Apple: 

Combine diced cooked pork with chunks of apple for a sweet and savory filling. You can also add a touch of sage for an herby flavor.

Lamb and Mint: 

Use ground or diced lamb and incorporate chopped mint leaves. Lamb and mint complement each other beautifully.

Seafood: 

For a unique twist, create a seafood pasty with a mixture of diced fish (such as cod or salmon), shrimp, scallops, or crabmeat. Season with seafood-friendly herbs and spices like dill or paprika.

Curry: 

Experiment with a spicy curry filling by mixing cooked chicken or lamb with a curry sauce, potatoes, peas, and a dash of coconut milk or cream.

Sweet Fillings: 

Don’t forget about dessert pasties. Fill the pastry with sweet ingredients like apples and cinnamon, berries, or chocolate and nuts for a delightful treat.

 

What to serve with Cornish pasty?

Cornish pasties are delicious and satisfying, but you can enhance the dish with complementary side dishes. Here are some traditional options you may enjoy.

Pickles or Chutney: 

Cornish pasties pair wonderfully with pickles or chutney. Opt for classics like Branston pickle or pickled onions for a traditional touch, or experiment with fruit chutneys for a sweet and tangy contrast. Be sure they are gluten free.

Salad: 

A fresh, crisp salad can balance the richness of the pasty. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can be a refreshing accompaniment.

Coleslaw: 

Crunchy coleslaw complements the pasty nicely with its creamy and slightly sweet flavors. It adds a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm and flaky pastry.

Yam and Sweet Potato Mash: 

A scoop of creamy yam and sweet potato mash alongside your Cornish pasty can make for a comforting and filling meal. It’s a hearty combination that many people enjoy.

Gravy: 

Some people like to serve their Cornish pasty with a drizzle of gravy, either traditional beef gravy or a vegetarian option. This adds extra flavor and moisture to the pasty.

Baked Beans: 

Consider serving your pasty with baked beans for a British twist. The sweetness of the beans can complement the savory pastry. Check for gluten-free options such as the Bush’s Best Vegetarian Baked Beans.

Soup: 

A warm bowl of soup can be a cozy accompaniment, especially with flavors that complement the pasty’s filling (such as Creamy Potato and Cauliflower Soup).

Cornish Pasty was initially developed for farmers and miners in southwest England. The pasties were used as a hearty lunch for the hard working people. With the savoury filling wrapped in a flaky crust, it makes a delicious hearty lunch or dinner. If you’re a fan of delicious comfort food but must follow a gluten-free diet, you’re in for a treat.

If you like British food you may enjoy these popular dishes. The Gluten-Free Fish Pie or the Gluten-Free Cottage Pie.

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Many thanks!

Kristina xx