How To Make Vegan Shortcrust Pastry: Simple Recipes and Preparations

Shortcrust pastry is a versatile and essential component of many delectable dishes, from savory pies to sweet tarts. Traditionally, it is made with butter, but for those following a vegan lifestyle or looking for a healthier alternative, vegan shortcrust pastry is the perfect solution. In this article, we will explore simple recipes and preparations for making vegan shortcrust pastry that is both delicious and easy to make.

Recipe #1: Basic Vegan Shortcrust Pastry

Ingredients:
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 130g vegan margarine or coconut oil
– 4-6 tablespoons ice-cold water
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour and add the pinch of salt. Mix well.
2. Add the vegan margarine or coconut oil, and using your fingertips, gently rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add 4 tablespoons of ice-cold water to the mixture, a tablespoon at a time, until it starts to come together. Add more water if necessary, but avoid making the dough too wet.
4. Bring the dough together with your hands, forming a ball. Wrap it in cling film or place it in a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the pastry to rest and firm up.
5. Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness.
6. Use the pastry to line your tart or pie tin, pressing it gently into the corners and edges. Trim any excess pastry and use a fork to prick the base to prevent it from rising during baking.
7. Follow your preferred recipe for the filling, and bake according to the instructions provided.

Recipe #2: Whole Wheat Vegan Shortcrust Pastry

Ingredients:
– 200g whole wheat flour
– 100g all-purpose flour
– 100g vegan margarine or coconut oil
– 4-6 tablespoons ice-cold water
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the vegan margarine or coconut oil and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add 4 tablespoons of ice-cold water to the mixture, a tablespoon at a time, until it starts to come together. Add more water if needed.
4. Follow steps 4 to 7 from Recipe #1 to prepare and bake the pastry.

Tips for Successful Vegan Shortcrust Pastry:

1. Be mindful of the temperature of your hands when working with the dough. If they are warm, it can melt the fat and make the pastry greasy. Use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut in the fat if necessary.
2. Resting the dough in the refrigerator allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender crust.
3. If you don’t have a tart or pie tin, you can also use the pastry to make individual tartlet shells or freeze it for future use.
4. Experiment with adding herbs, spices, or citrus zest to the dough for extra flavor variations.

By following these simple recipes and preparations, you can easily make delicious and flaky vegan shortcrust pastry for all your baking needs. Whether you’re craving a savory quiche or a fruity pie, this vegan alternative will surely impress both vegans and non-vegans alike. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create mouthwatering vegan pastries that are sure to delight!