While speaking with my mom this weekend she expressed to me that she has never been able to make a decent pastry crust for her pies....okay WHAT??? "You make pies all of the time," I thought. Yes she does, and she uses a store made pie crust. Well, at first I thought my entire childhood was a complete sham and then I acknowledged that some people are just overwhelmed by the thought of making a pastry crust. I also believe that there are those that just prefer to save time and purchase one. Why? I will never know.
I have a fool proof pastry dough that is very easy. It doesn't take a lot of time to prepare, and it tastes so much better than the store purchased pastry.
So mom, this one is for you...
Pastry Dough:
Ingredients:
1/2 pound lard cut into small cubes and brought to room temperature.
2 Tablespoons of cider vinegar or vodka (I prefer the latter)
1/2 cup (approx.) boiling water
1 teaspoon kosher salt
3 cups all purpose flour
Directions:
Add the room temperature lard to the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the mixing paddle.
In a microwave safe liquid measuring cup add the vinegar or vodka and top off with water to make 1/2 cup of liquid. Microwave on high until it boils then add the liquid to the lard and slowly mix until it becomes a creamy substance.
Add the salt and 1 cup of flour. Mix until smooth, scraping down sides and add remaining flour one cup at a time until it just comes together.
Turn out on a floured surface, split in half and make 2 discs the same size.
Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until ready to use. This will freeze well up to 6 months.
Have fun!
No comments:
Post a Comment