Portuguese natas, also known as pastéis de nata, are a beloved traditional dessert in Portugal. These delectable custard tarts are a staple in Portuguese cuisine and are often found in bakeries and cafes all over the country. The crispy, flaky crust combined with the creamy, sweet custard filling make for a perfect indulgence. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history and ingredients of this iconic dessert, as well as provide a step-by-step recipe for you to recreate these delicious treats at home.
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The History of Portuguese Natas
Origins
The origins of Portuguese natas can be traced back to the 18th century in the city of Belém, just outside of Lisbon. It is said that the recipe was created by Catholic monks who used egg whites to starch their clothing, leaving them with a surplus of egg yolks. Not wanting to waste the yolks, they used them to make custard tarts and sold them to support their monastery. These tarts became popular among the locals and eventually spread throughout Portugal.
Popularity
Today, Portuguese natas are not only enjoyed in Portugal but have also gained popularity around the world. They can be found in many Portuguese communities and have even made their way onto dessert menus in high-end restaurants. In 2011, a bakery in Lisbon that specializes in natas, Pastéis de Belém, sold over 10 million tarts, solidifying their status as a beloved national dessert.
The Ingredients
Butter and Flour
The key to a crispy and flaky crust for Portuguese natas is using a combination of butter and flour. The butter should be cold and cut into small pieces, while the flour should be chilled before use. This will create the perfect texture for the crust.
Sugar and Milk
The two main ingredients in the custard filling are sugar and milk. Portuguese natas have a slightly caramelized taste, which comes from the use of white sugar. The milk should be whole milk, as this will create a rich and creamy custard.
Egg Yolks
Egg yolks are the star of the show in Portuguese natas, providing the rich and velvety texture of the custard filling. It is important to use fresh eggs for the best results.
The Recipe
To make your own Portuguese natas, you will need:
- 2 sheets of puff pastry
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 6 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut them into circles that can fit in a muffin tin.
3. Place the circles in the muffin tin, pressing gently to form the crust.
4. In a saucepan, mix the sugar and flour together.
5. Slowly add in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks and add in the vanilla extract.
7. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
8. Cook the custard over medium heat until it thickens, about 10 minutes.
9. Pour the custard into the prepared pastry shells.
10. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
11. Let the natas cool before dusting with powdered sugar.
12. Serve and enjoy your homemade Portuguese natas!
With this simple and delicious recipe, you can now experience the rich history and flavors of Portuguese natas in the comfort of your own home. Surprise your family and friends with this traditional dessert and transport them to the streets of Portugal with every bite.
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