Who can say no to this famous egg tart, from Portugal?
Few desserts evoke as much adoration as the pastel de nata, Portugal’s iconic custard tart. With its golden, flaky crust cradling a creamy, caramelized custard center, it’s a treat that transcends borders and captivates palates. But behind this deceptively simple pastry lies a rich history, a touch of alchemy, and a taste of Lisbon’s vibrant culture. Let’s dive into the story, the recipe, and the best spots in Lisbon to savor this delectable bite.
A Sweet History
The origin of the pastel de nata dates back to the early 19th century at the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, Lisbon. The monks, known for their resourcefulness, created the recipe using leftover egg yolks—a common surplus as egg whites were used to starch their habits or clarify wines. By combining the yolks with sugar and cream, they crafted a rich custard, which they baked in a crisp pastry shell.
Following the dissolution of monasteries in Portugal in 1834, the monks sold the recipe to a local sugar refinery. This marked the birth of Pastéis de Belém, the bakery that still serves the original pastel de nata recipe today. Their secret recipe remains closely guarded, but its influence has inspired countless versions worldwide.
What Makes a Great Pastel de Nata?
A truly outstanding pastel de nata is a symphony of contrasts. The crust should be shatteringly crisp, made from layers of buttery pastry rolled to perfection. The custard, a creamy blend of egg yolks, sugar, milk, and a hint of cinnamon or lemon, should strike a delicate balance between sweetness and richness. And finally, the top—ideally caramelized with tiny blistered spots—adds a smoky depth that elevates the tart from delicious to divine.
The Recipe: Creating Magic at Home
While nothing compares to enjoying a pastel de nata fresh from a Lisbon bakery, making them at home is a satisfying endeavor. Here’s a simplified version to try:
Ingredients:
1 package puff pastry
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons allpurpose flour
6 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of one lemon
Ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the custard: In a saucepan, whisk together the cream, milk, sugar, and flour. Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Whisk the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and lemon zest into the cooled mixture until smooth.
Roll the pastry: Roll out the puff pastry into a thin sheet. Cut into circles and press them into a greased muffin tin to form shells.
Fill and bake: Pour the custard into the shells, filling them about threequarters full. Bake in a preheated oven at 220°C (430°F) for 1520 minutes, or until the tops are caramelized and the pastry is golden.
Sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon and serve warm.
Where to Find the Best in Lisbon
Lisbon is a pastel de nata lover’s paradise, with bakeries scattered across the city offering their takes on this iconic tart. Here are some unmissable stops:
1. Pastéis de Belém - The gold standard of pastel de nata, this historic bakery in Belém serves the original recipe. The line may be long, but one bite of their warm, custardfilled tarts is worth every second of the wait.
2. Manteigaria - A favorite among locals, Manteigaria is known for its perfectly balanced tarts with buttery, flaky crusts and smooth custard. Watching the pastry chefs in action through their glasswalled kitchen adds to the experience.
3. Café A Brasileira - One of Lisbon’s most iconic cafes, this spot combines history, ambiance, and a fabulous pastel de nata. Sip an espresso alongside your tart while soaking in the Belle Époque charm.
4. Castro Atelier de Pastéis de Nata - An artisan approach sets Castro apart. Their tarts boast inventive flavors like dark chocolate or port wine custard while staying true to the original’s spirit.
5. Confeitaria Nacional - Located in downtown Lisbon, this historic confectionery has been delighting locals since 1829. Their pastel de nata is a musttry for anyone exploring Baixa.
A Worldwide Love Affair
The pastel de nata has become a global ambassador of Portuguese culture. From London’s Borough Market to bakeries in Tokyo, this little tart has earned a place in the hearts (and stomachs) of dessert enthusiasts everywhere. However, its essence remains distinctly tied to Lisbon, where every bite carries the city’s sunshine, history, and warmth.
The pastel de nata is a symbol of Portuguese ingenuity, history, and hospitality. Whether you’re savoring one in a charming Lisbon café or attempting to recreate it at home, this little tart promises a moment of pure joy. So, next time you find yourself wandering through Lisbon, follow the scent of caramelized custard and flaky pastry—your pastel de nata adventure awaits. Yummy!!!