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For those who follow a vegan lifestyle, finding suitable pastry options can sometimes be a challenge. However, with this simple and delicious vegan shortcrust pastry recipe, you can create a perfect base for all your sweet and savory creations. Let’s dive into the world of this plant-based delight!
Shortcrust pastry is a versatile and widely used pastry dough that forms the base for pies, tarts, quiches, and various other delicacies. It is traditionally made using butter, which gives it a rich and flaky texture. But fear not, this vegan version provides you with the same delightful experience, minus the dairy products.
To make vegan shortcrust pastry, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version)
– 1 cup of vegan butter or vegan margarine (chilled and cut into small cubes)
– 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
– ¼ teaspoon of salt
– ¼ cup of ice-cold water
Now, let’s get started!
First, in a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Next, add the chilled vegan butter or margarine to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial to achieving a flaky texture, so ensure your butter is cold for better results.
Once the butter is incorporated, it’s time to add cold water. Gradually pour the ice-cold water into the mixture, stirring with a fork or your hands. Add just enough water to bring the dough together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough crust.
Form the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the butter to chill and the gluten to relax. This resting time ensures a tender and easy-to-work-with pastry.
After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the pastry to fit your recipe requirements. If the dough feels too crumbly, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.
Transfer the rolled-out pastry to your desired baking dish and press it firmly into the corners. Trim any excess pastry and use a fork to prick the base. This helps to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking.
At this point, you can either blind bake the pastry shell or proceed with your filling and bake accordingly. Blind baking involves pre-baking the pastry without any filling. It is often done for recipes that require fully cooked pastry shells, such as quiches or cream pies.
To blind bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the pastry with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans to keep it from puffing up. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Remove the parchment paper and weights, and bake for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the base is thoroughly cooked.
And voilà! Your vegan shortcrust pastry is now ready to be filled with your favorite sweet or savory ingredients.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just experimenting with plant-based baking, this basic vegan shortcrust pastry recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Its simplicity and versatility allow you to create a wide range of delectable dishes that cater to your dietary preferences. So, unleash your creativity and enjoy the delightful world of vegan pastries!
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