Cornish Pasty
Pastan' Kernow
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Region
- Cornwall
- Recipes
- 3 Recipes
Dish information
The Cornish Pasty, or 'Pastan' Kernow' in Cornish, is a quintessential hand-held baked pastry originating from Cornwall, England, renowned for its distinctive crimped edge and hearty, savory filling. Its development as a portable and sustaining meal is closely linked to the region’s tin mining heritage. Miners needed a substantial, easily transportable lunch that could withstand being carried down into the mines. The thick, crimped crust served a dual purpose: it acted as a handle (the 'tarnish') that could be discarded after eating, preventing contamination from the dirty hands of the miners, and it protected the moist filling inside. The traditional filling consists of diced or minced beef, potato, swede (rutabaga), and onion, seasoned with salt and pepper. The ingredients were typically hearty and readily available in Cornwall. While pasties have existed in various forms for centuries, the specific Cornish Pasty as we know it today solidified its identity and popularity during the 19th century, driven by the mining industry. Its iconic shape and robust composition made it an ideal packed lunch. The unique crimping technique along the top or side is a cultural marker. In 2011, the Cornish Pasty was granted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status by the European Union, meaning only pasties made in Cornwall to a specific recipe and method can be officially called Cornish Pasties. This protection underscores its deep cultural and historical significance to the region of Cornwall, making it more than just a pastry, but a symbol of Cornish identity and culinary tradition.
Timeline
Early forms of pasties, including those with meat and vegetables, are documented
Cornish Pasty becomes a staple lunch for tin miners
The characteristic crimping method becomes firmly established
The pasty gains wider recognition beyond Cornwall as a popular snack
Cornish Pasty awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status
